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Easy Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells Recipe

Easiest Ever Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells Recipe

Easy Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells Recipe is a creamy and flavorful dish that brings comfort to busy weeknights.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Course: Beef
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Beef, Cheesy, Crockpot, pasta, Ranch, Shells
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 400kcal

Equipment

  • Crockpot

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

  • 1 lb Ground Beef Substitution: Use lean ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1 packet Ranch Dressing Mix Substitution: Combine garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Can adjust the quantity based on desired sauce thickness.

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 1 can Cream of Mushroom or Chicken Soup Substitution: For a dairy-free version, use a coconut milk-based soup.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Optional: Can be omitted or replaced with a dairy-free version.

For the Pasta and Cheese

  • 1 lb Pasta Shells Substitution: Small pasta shapes like rotini or penne can be used.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Substitution: Use only one type or replace with Monterey Jack or Colby.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup Chopped Vegetables Feel free to customize with your favorite additions!

Instructions

How to Make

  • Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains, draining any excess fat.
  • Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned beef into your crockpot. Add the ranch dressing mix, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream. Stir until well mixed.
  • Fold in Pasta: Gently add the uncooked pasta shells into the mixture, ensuring each piece gets evenly coated.
  • Cook Low & Slow: Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 3.5 to 4 hours or on high for about 2 hours.
  • Add Cheese: About 10 minutes before serving, stir the mixture well. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
  • Serve Hot: Once melted, stir the cheese through the mixture, taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve hot.

Notes

Garnish with fresh parsley for an added pop of color!

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 400kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 500IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 200mg | Iron: 2mg
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