This Creamy One-Pot Beef and Shells is the ultimate weeknight hero—tender pasta shells simmered with seasoned ground beef in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, all cooked in one pot with minimal cleanup. Inspired by classic stovetop casseroles, it’s ready in 30 minutes, uses pantry staples, and delivers deep, satisfying flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl.
No draining. No extra dishes. Just creamy, cheesy comfort from start to finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
🥩 One pot, 30 minutes, zero stress
⏱️ Minimal cleanup = more family time
💛 Uses pantry staples—no special shopping
💸 Costs under $8—feeds 4–6 generously
🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free (use GF pasta)
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Large deep skillet or Dutch oven)
1 tbsp olive oil
1½ lbs (680g) ground beef (85/15)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika (optional, for depth)
Salt & black pepper to taste
2½ cups (600ml) beef broth
2 cups (8 oz) medium pasta shells, uncooked
1½ cups (6 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup (120ml) milk or half-and-half
💡 Pro Tips:
Don’t drain the beef fat—1 tbsp adds richness to the sauce.
Use full-fat cheddar—pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt smoothly.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking—but don’t over-stir (pasta needs space to absorb liquid).
Step-by-Step Instructions (Creamy, Cheesy, Foolproof)
1. Brown the Beef
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