Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells

Introduction

Crockpot meals have a special place in the hearts of busy home cooks, offering convenience without sacrificing flavor. One standout recipe is the Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells, which combines tender beef, creamy cheese, and the bold flavor of ranch dressing. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you can set this dish to simmer while you focus on other tasks. The end result is a hearty, cheesy pasta that is both comforting and satisfying. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 ounces medium pasta shells
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions & Preparation

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
2. Add the cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, beef broth, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the crockpot. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Once the cooking time is complete, stir in the cooked pasta shells and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the pasta is well coated and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

FAQs

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little additional beef broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with different pasta shapes, but adjust the cooking time as necessary.

What if my beef is overcooked?

If the beef is overcooked, it may be dry; ensure to monitor the cooking time closely and consider adding extra broth to maintain moisture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and opt for low-fat soups to reduce calories.

What if I don't have ranch dressing mix?

You can create your own ranch seasoning by combining dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Conclusion

Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells is a fantastic dish for those looking for a delicious meal without the fuss. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a comfort food favorite that's easy to prepare.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting with variations and make it your own, knowing that the slow cooker has your back while you go about your day.

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Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells

Make Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells with clear steps, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can 10.5 oz cheddar cheese soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 packet 1 oz ranch dressing mix
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 ounces medium pasta shells
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Method

 

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
2. Add the cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, beef broth, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the crockpot. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Once the cooking time is complete, stir in the cooked pasta shells and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the pasta is well coated and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.

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