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One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells

A close-up of a bowl filled with rich, cheesy Creamy Beef and Shells Pasta Quick Dinner, garnished with fresh parsley.

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Make this simple, creamy ground beef and shell pasta dish entirely in one pot for a fast weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 8 ounces medium shell pasta
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and add the undrained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add the shell pasta to the boiling liquid. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and cubed cream cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  7. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • If the sauce is too thick after adding the cheese, add a splash of milk or extra broth until you reach your desired consistency.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce.

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