Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef and Shells Recipe: Easy Comfort Food for Busy Nights
If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy pasta dinner that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef and Shells recipe is your new go-to! Packed with savory ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a melty blend of cheeses, this dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping ahead of a busy week.
Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and everything you need to create this delicious slow cooker pasta dish.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef and Shells
Easy Prep: Minimal stovetop cooking before it all goes into the slow cooker.
Family Friendly: Rich tomato sauce and plenty of cheese make this a kid-approved favorite.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and affordable ground beef.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to make Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef and Shells:
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1 pound ground beef
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
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1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 cups uncooked medium pasta shells
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
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Drain any excess fat to prevent a greasy sauce.
Step 2: Cook Onion and Garlic
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Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef.
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Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
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Carefully transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker insert.
Step 4: Add Sauces and Seasoning
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Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (with their juices).
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Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
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Stir everything to combine well.
Step 5: Slow Cook
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Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
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Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 6: Add Pasta
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About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked pasta shells.
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Increase the heat to HIGH.
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Cover and cook for 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Step 7: Stir in Cheddar and Mozzarella
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Once the pasta is cooked, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
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Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 8: Top with Parmesan and Serve
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Just before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
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Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, cheesy meal!
Tips for Success
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Don’t overcook the pasta. Check it after 25 minutes so it stays al dente.
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Use lean ground beef to reduce grease and make cleanup easier.
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Add vegetables. For extra nutrition, stir in a cup of baby spinach or frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
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Make it spicy. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a little heat.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer:
You can freeze cooked portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni also work well.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely—brown the beef and mix in the sauce ingredients. Refrigerate overnight in your slow cooker insert (if your model allows) and start cooking the next day.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Try swapping the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a meatless version.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food that saves you time without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping lunches, it’s sure to satisfy every appetite at the table.
If you loved this recipe, share it on Pinterest or bookmark it for later!
Related Recipes You’ll Love:
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Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
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Cheesy Slow Cooker Taco Pasta
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Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Noodles