Slow Cooker Creamy Ground Beef and Shells is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. With tender shell pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce made with cheddar cheese and cream of mushroom soup, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 pound 80/20 lean ground beef
- 2 cans (11 ounces each) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shell pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups milk
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Beef: Add the onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir well to combine.
Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, combine the cooked ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, uncooked shell pasta, and milk. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
- Add Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 3: Cook the Dish
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Serving
- Serve: Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy, give the mixture a good stir. Serve the creamy ground beef and shells hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Ground Beef: For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
- Pasta: Make sure to use uncooked pasta as it will absorb the flavors of the sauce while cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, follow these modifications:
- Pasta: Substitute the shell pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
- Soup: Use a homemade low-carb cream of mushroom soup or a store-bought keto-friendly version.
- Milk: Replace the milk with unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream.
Slow Cooker Creamy Ground Beef and Shells is a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender pasta, savory ground beef, and creamy sauce, this meal offers comfort and flavor in every bite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty, homemade dinner that’s both easy to make and delicious!
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