Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless and Hands-Off: Just brown the beef, toss everything into the crockpot, and let it cook while you go about your day.
• Creamy and Cheesy: Loaded with cheddar and mozzarella, plus creamy cheddar cheese soup, this dish is packed with rich flavor and melty goodness.
• Ranch Flavor Boost: The ranch seasoning adds a tangy, savory punch that elevates the whole dish.
• Family-Friendly: A sure hit with kids and adults alike, making dinner easy and stress-free.
• Customizable: Use your favorite pasta shape or add extra veggies for more nutrition.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 12 oz medium pasta shells, uncooked
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are tender. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot
Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your crockpot. Add ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese soup, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, uncooked pasta shells, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Beef
Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the pasta shells are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

Step 4: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Toss in diced bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Use Different Pasta: Substitute shells with penne, rotini, or macaroni if preferred.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Extra Creamy: Stir in an extra 1/4 cup of milk or cream cheese toward the end of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked ground beef to save time. Just add it to the crockpot with the other ingredients and adjust cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have cheddar cheese soup?

You can substitute with an equal amount of cream of cheese soup or use a homemade cheese sauce.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir the mixture occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking, and ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can try substituting the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives and use a dairy-free milk substitute.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Cook as directed the next day.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells dish is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and flavorful comfort food that’s incredibly simple to make. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it’s ideal for busy nights when you want a hearty, satisfying meal without the hassle. Enjoy this crowd-pleasing pasta dinner any night of the week!

---

Print