One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup? This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is the answer! Packed with savory beef, tender pasta shells, and a creamy sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (10 oz) condensed tomato soup
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups medium pasta shells
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato soup, beef broth, and pasta shells. Bring to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
• Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust seasoning to taste.

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta shells with any other short pasta like macaroni or penne.

• Is it okay to use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes instead of canned if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

• Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

• Is it freezer-friendly?

This dish can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Can I use a different type of cheese?

You can use any type of cheese you prefer or have on hand, such as mozzarella or Parmesan.

• How can I make it spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dish for a kick of spice.

• Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a vegetarian-friendly alternative to beef broth.

• Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by browning the beef and onions first, then adding all ingredients to the slow cooker and cooking on low for 4-6 hours or until pasta is tender.

Helpful tips:

• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of Italian seasoning or dried herbs like oregano and basil.
• To make it more indulgent, top the dish with crispy bacon crumbles before serving.
• For a creamy twist, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream before serving.
• To make it healthier, use lean ground beef or turkey and whole wheat pasta shells.
• You can add a can of drained and rinsed beans like kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
• For a cheesy crust, transfer the dish to a baking dish, sprinkle with more cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden.
• Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or additional seasonings for a personal touch.
• You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta shells and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• If the sauce is too thick, simply add a splash more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• To add a pop of color, garnish with chopped fresh basil, green onions, or roasted red peppers.

Expert Secrets:

• For a richer flavor, try browning the ground beef until deeply caramelized before adding other ingredients.
• To enhance the umami taste, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the dish.
• For a creamy texture, use whole milk or half-and-half instead of beef broth in the sauce.
• To make it a complete meal, serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
• For a cheesy top, sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top of the dish before covering to let it melt and form a delicious crust.
• For a smoky flavor, add a hint of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the dish.
• To make it a one-pot vegetarian meal, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Consider adding a can of diced green chilies for an extra kick of flavor and heat.
• To cut down on cooking time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or leftover shredded beef in the dish.
• For a creamier sauce, stir in a spoonful of cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup along with the tomato soup.