Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells
Introduction
Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells is a delicious and comforting meal that combines tender beef with creamy cheese and pasta. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With the help of a slow cooker, you can prepare a hearty dish that your loved ones will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells for several reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare. Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, and let it do its magic. Second, the flavors meld beautifully over time, creating a rich and savory sauce. Third, it is a great way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the week. You’ll find this dish filling, comforting, and packed with flavor!
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells
Ingredients
- 1½ lb (680 g) beef chuck roast or stew meat, cut into 1″ cubes
- 1 packet (1 oz / 28 g) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
- 1 (10.5 oz / 300 g) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz (340 g) medium pasta shells
- 1½ cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup (50 g) shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella
- ¼ cup (60 ml) half-and-half or milk
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Crumbled crispy bacon
- Extra shredded cheese
Directions
Season & layer the beef: Spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick spray. Place beef cubes inside. Sprinkle ranch seasoning and smoked paprika over the top.
Add aromatics & sauce: Scatter chopped onion and garlic over the beef. Pour in beef broth, cream soup, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently stir to combine, ensuring the beef is mostly submerged.
Slow-cook to tender: Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours (or High for 3–4 hours), until the beef is fork-tender. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Prep the pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells until just al dente (2 minutes less than package directions). Drain.
Stir in pasta & cheese: Switch the slow cooker to High. Add drained pasta, half of the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and half-and-half. Gently fold until cheese melts into a creamy sauce and pasta is heated through, about 10 minutes.
Melt & serve: Sprinkle remaining cheddar over the top. Cover for 5 minutes until melted. Garnish with parsley, chives, or bacon if desired. Serve hot straight from the cooker.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells
Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells hot, straight from the slow cooker. You can add extra cheese, chopped parsley, chives, or crispy bacon on top for added flavor and presentation. Pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells
If you have leftovers, let them cool down completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. You can also freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for about 2–3 months.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells
- Make sure to cut the beef into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Adjust the ranch seasoning to your liking. If you like it more flavorful, feel free to add more!
- You can use any type of cheese you enjoy, such as gouda or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- For a looser sauce, add more beef broth or half-and-half.
Variation
You can switch the pasta type to penne or rotini if you prefer. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and cook the pasta right before serving.
Q: Can I use different meat?
A: Absolutely! You can use ground beef, chicken, or turkey for different flavors.
Q: How do I reheat the leftovers?
A: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove in a pot over low heat. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
