One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting, easy meal that brings together tender ground beef, pasta shells, and a creamy, cheesy sauce all cooked in one pot. The pasta shells soak up the rich flavors, making every bite wonderfully satisfying. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss or cleanup.
I love making this dish when I’m short on time but still want a meal that feels like a warm hug. The best part is that it’s all done in one pot, so you don’t have to juggle multiple pans or worry about washing a ton of dishes afterward. Plus, you can easily add in your favorite veggies like spinach or peas to sneak in something green.
When I serve this, I like to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top and maybe some fresh parsley if I have it. It’s a simple meal that always gets a thumbs up from my family, and it feels like a little bit of comfort food magic without any extra work. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want something creamy and filling.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This adds hearty flavor and protein. If you want leaner meat, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles work well.
Pasta shells: Medium pasta shells catch the sauce nicely. You can swap with small shells, elbow macaroni, or even penne if needed. Just watch cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
Beef broth & marinara sauce: These build the flavor base. If you don’t have beef broth, chicken or vegetable broth works fine. Use your preferred store-bought or homemade marinara, or try tomato sauce with Italian seasonings.
Heavy cream & cheeses: Heavy cream brings creaminess. You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter dish, but the sauce will be thinner. Mozzarella and Parmesan add cheesy richness; feel free to try cheddar or provolone for a different taste.
How Do You Cook Pasta Perfectly in One Pot Without It Getting Mushy?
The secret is keeping an eye on the liquid and stirring gently to prevent sticking.
- Use enough broth and sauce to just cover the pasta so it cooks evenly.
- Bring to a boil then lower heat to a gentle simmer—this avoids breaking the pasta.
- Cover the pan to trap steam, which cooks the pasta evenly and quickly.
- Stir occasionally, but gently, to avoid mushy or broken pasta.
- Check pasta a few minutes before the package time to avoid overcooking.
Finishing with cream and cheese after cooking helps keep the sauce creamy and the pasta tender without turning it into a mushy mess.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan – perfect for browning beef and cooking pasta all in one pot, saving you time and cleanup.
- Lid for the skillet – helps trap steam so the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring gently without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the broth, cream, and spices just right for perfect flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that still tastes great.
- Add spinach or kale in the last few minutes for green, fresh flavor and extra nutrients.
- Use smoked mozzarella or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a mild smoky twist.
- Mix in cooked peas or diced bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 cups uncooked medium pasta shells
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of roughly 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms to the beef in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the veggies are soft and fragrant.
3. Add Seasoning and Pasta:
Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and the uncooked pasta shells, mixing well to coat the pasta in the beef and veggie mixture.
4. Add Liquids and Simmer:
Pour in the beef broth and marinara sauce. Stir everything to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pan, lower the heat to a gentle simmer, and cook for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking and cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
6. Finish with More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the dish. Cover again and cook for 2-3 more minutes until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve the creamy beef and shells warm and delicious.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents excess water from making the dish soggy.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Healthier?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or cashew cream.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Spinach, peas, or bell peppers are great additions. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay fresh and vibrant.
