Slow Cooker Ground Beef & Shells Casserole
Description
Slow Cooker Ground Beef & Shells Casserole is a hearty, creamy, and family-friendly comfort meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta shells, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese. This easy slow cooker recipe combines the flavors of a classic baked pasta casserole with the convenience of hands-off cooking. The beef becomes savory and flavorful, while the shells absorb the delicious sauce and turn perfectly tender. Finished with gooey melted cheese, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family.
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Sauce & Pasta:
- 3 cups marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups medium pasta shells (uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for richer flavor)
For the Cheese Layer:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese or sour cream (optional for creaminess)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with chopped onion until browned. Drain excess grease. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Season the Meat
Stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
3. Build the Slow Cooker
Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, and tomato paste. Stir well.
4. Add Pasta
Stir in uncooked pasta shells so they are mostly covered in liquid.
5. Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3.5 hours or until pasta is tender. Stir once halfway through if possible.
6. Add Cheese
When pasta is cooked, stir in cream cheese or sour cream if using. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
7. Melt & Serve
Cover again for 10–15 minutes until cheese melts. Serve hot.
Notes & Tips
- Do not overcook after adding pasta or it may become too soft.
- Different pasta brands cook at different speeds, so check early.
- Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- For a spicy version, add red chili flakes.
Servings
Serves 6 people
Nutritional Info (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 465
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 690mg
Benefits
- High in protein for muscle support and satiety
- One-pot meal for easier cleanup
- Great for batch cooking and leftovers
- Balanced carbs, protein, and fats
- Kid-friendly and filling
- Can be customized with vegetables or lighter meats
Q/A Section
Q: Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Yes, reduce broth and stir pasta in near the end.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months.
Q: Why are my shells mushy?
They likely cooked too long. Check tenderness early.
Q: Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes, rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work well.
Q: What can I serve with it?
Garlic bread, salad, or steamed vegetables pair perfectly.