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One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells in Under 30 Minutes: A Quick Weeknight Hero

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Creamy, cheesy, and ready in under 30 minutes, this One-Pot Beef and Shells recipe delivers serious comfort food vibes with minimal cleanup—perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1½ cups tomato sauce

  • 2½ cups beef broth

  • 2 cups medium pasta shells (uncooked)

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

  • Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

  • Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.

  • Add tomato sauce, beef broth, and pasta shells. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • When pasta is cooked and most liquid absorbed, stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese.

  • Cook 2–3 minutes more until creamy. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use whole milk instead of cream for a lighter version.

  • Substitute ground turkey or plant-based beef as desired.

  • Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Find it online: https://bitetrovu.com/one-pot-creamy-beef-and-shells-in-under-30-minutes-a-quick-weeknight-hero/