Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Stovetop · Storage: 3 days in the fridge, 1 month in the freezer.
Quick Answer
This Cheesy Beef and Shells recipe combines ground beef, pasta, and a melty cheese top for a comforting one-pot meal perfect for fall gatherings.
As the leaves turn crimson and the air in New York City gets that crisp bite of autumn, I find myself gravitating towards my trusty kitchen. There’s a certain charm to cozying up with a hot dish that warms both the heart and the home, and that’s where this Cheesy Beef and Shells recipe truly shines. It’s the kind of one-pot wonder that feels just right for family gatherings, especially with Thanksgiving and Christmas right around the corner. This dish is perfect for sharing with loved ones while recounting stories around the table, making it a cozy centerpiece for any holiday feast. Let’s dig in!
A Cozy Comfort Dish
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a hearty, one-pot dish perfect for cozy family gatherings.
- Deliciously cheesy with a tantalizing blend of flavors that everyone will love.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
- Versatile – you can customize with your favorite veggies or cheese blends.
- Leftovers are just as tasty, perfect for meal prep and convenience.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your Cheesy Beef and Shells.
For the Beef and Shells
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
For the Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheese (blending sharp cheddar and mozzarella)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How to Make Cheesy Beef and Shells (Step-by-Step)
Creating this delightful dish is a breeze with just a few straightforward steps.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook until it’s beautifully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat for a lighter dish, then toss in the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Sauces and Seasoning
Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it bubble gently for 5 minutes, allowing the rich aroma to fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Toss in the Pasta Shells
Add the medium pasta shells directly into the flavorful mix, covering the skillet and simmering for 10-12 minutes, or until the shells are al dente. Gently stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Cheese Time!
Once the shells reach the perfect texture, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle generously with the shredded cheese and Parmesan. Cover and let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
Step 5: Serve It Up
With a sprinkle of fresh parsley, serve the cheesy beef and shells straight from the skillet, presenting a beautiful and hearty comfort dish!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining excess fat: This can make the dish greasy and heavy.
- Overcooking the pasta: Perfectly cooked pasta should be al dente, so keep an eye on it!
- Skimping on seasoning: Salt and pepper are key players in this dish, so don’t be shy.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition and color.
- Experiment with cheese blends; adding gouda or pepper jack can elevate the flavor profile significantly!
- This recipe is also great for meal prep; simply double the batch and freeze for busy weeknights.
Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner meat option.
- Incorporate different types of cheese for varied flavors, such as gouda or feta.
- Swap pasta shells for another shape like penne or rotini.
How to Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley for an added pop of color.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Offer additional cheese or hot sauce on the side for optional toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dish up to the point of adding cheese, then cover and refrigerate. Add cheese before serving.
- Storage: Let leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quicker option.
- Freezing: Freeze for about a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
After testing this recipe, I realized how simple ingredients can come together to create something absolutely delightful. Also, cooking in one pot makes both an easy cleanup and a wonderfully infused flavor throughout the dish. Embrace that cozy feeling this fall, and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 25g protein · 40g carbs · 20g fat
Cheesy Beef and Shells
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook until it’s beautifully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat for a lighter dish, then toss in the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it bubble gently for 5 minutes.
- Add the medium pasta shells directly into the flavorful mix, covering the skillet and simmering for 10-12 minutes, or until the shells are al dente. Gently stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.
- Once the shells reach the perfect texture, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle generously with the shredded cheese and Parmesan. Cover and let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
- With a sprinkle of fresh parsley, serve the cheesy beef and shells straight from the skillet.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for different meats.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use sautéed mushrooms and other vegetables for added texture and flavor.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be frozen. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They can be frozen for about a month, and reheating is easy in the oven or microwave.
