One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells
Ingredients
- 1 lblean ground beef
- ½ mediumonion
chopped
- 2 tbsptomato paste
- 1 tspgarlic powder
- 1 tsppaprika
- 1 tspitalian seasoning
- 2 cbeef broth
- 1 cheavy/whipping cream
- ½ tbspworcestershire sauce
- 2 cuncooked medium shells
- 8 ozvelveeta cheese
cubed
- to tastesalt & pepper
Directions
- 1
Add the beef and onions to a Dutch oven/soup pot. Cook over medium-high heat until the beef has browned (about 7-10 minutes), breaking the meat up with your spoon as you go along. Spoon out excess fat.
- 2
Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- 3
Add in the beef broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Increase the heat to high. Once it starts boiling, add in the pasta.
- 4
Reduce the heat so it's not furiously boiling (a rapid simmer is good). I cook mine over medium heat. Let it cook uncovered until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed (about 12-13 minutes). Stir it every couple of minutes.
- 5
Stir in the Velveeta, then take the pot off the heat once it's melted in. Season with salt & pepper as needed. You can let it sit for a couple minutes prior to serving (it'll soak up the sauce quickly), or serve it right away.
One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells
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About this Recipe
Craving a deeply satisfying, comforting meal that comes together without a pile of dirty dishes? This One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells recipe is your answer, delivering rich flavor and ultimate ease for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines because it brings together hearty ground beef and tender pasta in a single pot, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. The genius lies in the silky cheese sauce, created with heavy cream and Velveeta, which coats every shell perfectly for that irresistible, creamy finish. It's a speedy solution for busy evenings, proving that delicious comfort food doesn't have to be complicated.
What to Expect
You're in for a treat with this cheesy beef and shells dish. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of savory ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a luxuriously smooth, cheesy sauce. The hint of tomato paste, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning adds depth, while a dash of Worcestershire sauce provides a subtle umami kick. It's the kind of hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, satisfying that classic comfort food craving with ease. This dish is designed to be straightforward and satisfying, making it a reliable favorite for any home cook, serving four generously.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to make this One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells your own. You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a richer flavor, consider using an extra sharp cheddar alongside or instead of the Velveeta. To sneak in some vegetables, stir in a handful of frozen peas or corn during the last few minutes of cooking, or sauté some diced carrots with the onion.
Serving & Context
This robust and comforting cheesy beef and shells dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends. Serve it as a standalone main course, or complement its richness with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for soaking up every bit of that delicious sauce.