Oh, do I have a treat for you today! One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made this dish, it was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and I was craving comfort food. The kind of food that fills your stomach and warms your heart. I’ve had countless chilly nights where a steaming bowl of this cheesy goodness has saved the day. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that only uses one pot? Fewer dishes to wash means more time for the important things in life – like curling up on the couch with a good book or binge-watching my favorite show.
This dish combines the savory flavors of beef, the creaminess of cheese, and the satisfaction of pasta all in one comforting bowl. It’s not only simple to make, but it also dazzles the taste buds and is perfect for a family dinner or impressing guests. Let me share my secrets with you!
What’s in One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells?
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I usually prefer using lean ground beef, as it gives the dish a delicious flavor without being too greasy. But you could also use turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a healthier alternative.
Shell Pasta: The little shells are perfect for holding on to all that cheesy goodness. They cook quickly and soak up the flavors from the beef and sauce beautifully. I like using medium shells for the best texture, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand!
Diced Tomatoes: These add a juicy burst of flavor and a pop of color to the dish. I love using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra smokey depth, but any canned variety will do.
Beef Broth: This liquid gold creates the base for the entire dish and enhances the meatiness. If you want to keep it lighter, low-sodium broth is the way to go.
Cheddar Cheese: The cheesy element that takes this dish over the top! I go for sharp cheddar for a bold flavor, but feel free to play around with your favorites — Monterey Jack or a blend work wonderfully as well.
Sour Cream: For that creamy finish! It adds a delightful tang and richness that will have your taste buds singing.
Is One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells Good for You?
You bet! This dish provides a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and fats.
Ground Beef: It’s a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Just be mindful of the fat content — opting for lean beef helps manage calorie intake.
Diced Tomatoes: These are packed with vitamins, especially vitamin C, and can help with digestion due to their fiber content. The antioxidants in tomatoes can also boost your heart health.
Sour Cream: While it adds richness, it does contain fats, so you might want to use it in moderation. Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute if you want to cut down on calories and add some probiotics for gut health.
Overall, this dish is relatively wholesome when prepared with lean ingredients and can be made even healthier with veggies added in!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
– 1 1/2 cups medium shell pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for more flavor)
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
– Serves: 4-6
How to Make One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells?
1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the beef to absorb some of that delectable flavor.
3. Increase the heat to bring everything to a boil, then toss in the shell pasta. Stir well, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
4. Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cheesy Extras and Serving Suggestions!
If you want to get fancy, toss in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers when adding the diced tomatoes. Cooking some chopped onions and garlic along with the ground beef will add even more flavor — and who doesn’t love the smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen?
I also love serving this dish with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to mop up all that cheesy goodness. Leftovers? They taste even better the next day, so make sure to save some for lunch!
I can’t wait for you to try this One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells and watch your family’s eyes widen at the sight (and taste) of it. It’s everything comfort food should be — easy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. Share your results with me; I’d love to hear how it turned out or any twists you added. Happy cooking!
