After a long day, I often find myself in a mini crisis, staring at the clock as it ticks towards dinner time. When time is limited, my go-to lifesaver is this Instant Pot Creamy Beef and Shells recipe. It’s a quick one-pot wonder that whips up in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when all you crave is a comforting meal without the fuss. The combination of lean ground beef and tender shell pasta smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce is enough to satisfy everyone around the table, from picky eaters to culinary adventurers. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—who doesn’t appreciate that? Are you ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of warmth and flavor? Let’s dive into this creamy delight!
Why Choose Instant Pot Beef and Shells?
Speedy Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is a real time-saver for weeknight dinners.
Comfort in a Bowl: Each bite delivers creamy, cheesy goodness, bringing a sense of warmth and satisfaction that’s perfect for any occasion.
Minimal Cleanup: Enjoy all the flavor without the hassle, thanks to the one-pot cooking method—less mess, more happiness!
Customizable Delight: Feel free to experiment! Add in your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese for endless variations.
Family-Friendly: Bring everyone together around the table with a dish that’s sure to please both picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike. If you’re looking for more delicious options, check out our Shells Ground Beef or Crockpot Beef Stroganoff for more comforting meals.
Instant Pot Beef and Shells Ingredients
For the Beef Base
• Lean Ground Beef – Main protein source; provides a hearty base. Substitutions: Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative.
• Yellow Onion (small, diced) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Substitution: Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Enhances aroma and flavor profile. Tip: Fresh garlic is recommended for the best taste; powdered garlic is a suitable alternative in a pinch.
• Dried Italian Seasoning (1 tbsp) – Contributes a herbaceous, savory note. Substitution: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme can work well.
• Salt (1/2 tsp) & Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Essential seasonings to balance flavors. Note: Adjust according to personal taste preference.
• Crushed Red Pepper (1/4 tsp) – Adds a hint of heat. Substitution: Omit for milder flavor or increase for more spice.
For the Sauce
• Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can) – Acts as the sauce base; adds acidity and moisture. Note: Can use tomato sauce in place of crushed tomatoes if preferred.
• Reduced-Sodium Beef Broth (3 ½ cups, divided) – Provides moisture and enhances flavor. Substitution: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
For the Pasta
• Uncooked Shell Pasta (16 oz) – Main carbohydrate source; absorbs flavors during cooking. Note: Ensure not to stir after adding pasta to avoid sticking.
For Creaminess
• Heavy Cream (1/3 cup) – Adds creaminess and richness to the dish. Substitution: Cream cheese can be used for a thicker sauce.
• Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, divided) – Melts into the sauce for a cheesy finish. Substitution: Other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack may be used.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Beef and Shells
Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef
Start by pressing the sauté button on your Instant Pot. Once heated, add the lean ground beef and cook until it’s browned, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart, ensuring it browns evenly. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and return the beef to the pot.
Step 2: Cook the Onions
Next, add the diced yellow onion to the browned beef in the Instant Pot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step enhances the flavor base for your Instant Pot Beef and Shells, creating a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Sauté everything together for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, infusing the mixture with rich, savory flavors. This addition will elevate the taste of your creamy sauce as it cooks.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in ½ cup of reduced-sodium beef broth, using a spatula to scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pot. This process, known as deglazing, helps to incorporate all those flavorful morsels into your sauce, setting the stage for delicious Instant Pot Beef and Shells.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add uncooked shell pasta, crushed tomatoes, and the remaining beef broth to the pot. Carefully push the pasta down into the sauce, but avoid stirring to prevent sticking. This step ensures the pasta absorbs all the savory flavors from the beef and tomatoes as it cooks.
Step 6: Pressure Cook
Seal the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring it’s locked in place, and set it to manual high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the timer goes off, the Instant Pot will automatically switch to keep warm mode, allowing the flavors to meld together while you prepare for the next step.
Step 7: Quick Release Pressure
After the cooking time, carefully perform a quick release by turning the steam release handle to venting. Watch out for the steam as it escapes! Once the safety pin drops, you can open the lid, revealing a steaming pot of creamy beef and shells ready to be finished.
Step 8: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and half of the grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. This final step transforms your Instant Pot Beef and Shells into a decadent dish, ensuring every bite is rich and savory. Top with the remaining cheese before serving, allowing it to melt beautifully on top.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Beef and Shells
Pairing your meal can elevate the entire dining experience, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery slice complements the creamy pasta, perfect for soaking up every delicious drop of sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette add a crisp contrast, bringing brightness to the hearty dish. Consider tossing in cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for added crunch.
- Steamed Broccoli: Tender, bright green florets provide a nutritious touch, enhancing the meal with vibrant color and a mild earthy flavor. The slight crunch pairs nicely with the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots add a touch of sweetness and earthy notes, creating a beautifully rounded plate. They’re sweet enough to delight yet simple enough not to overpower.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These easy-to-make biscuits are a fantastic side, adding an appealing cheesy flavor and fluffy texture that harmonizes with the creamy beef dish.
- Dry Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red, such as Merlot, enhances the richness of the beef and complements the savory flavors beautifully.
- Chocolate Pudding: For dessert, this creamy treat is a delightful way to end the meal, bringing a rich sweetness that balances the savory main dish wonderfully.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Beef and Shells are a fantastic meal prep solution for busy weeknights! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the onions up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the spices and prepare the crushed tomato and broth mixture in advance to save even more time. When you’re ready to cook, combine the beef, cooked onions, uncooked shell pasta, and sauce in the Instant Pot, follow your original recipe steps, and then pressure cook as directed. This will ensure that your creamy, cheesy dish tastes just as delicious and helps you save time in the kitchen!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Beef and Shells
• Use Lean Beef: Opt for 90% lean ground beef for a flavorful dish without excess grease. It keeps your sauce creamy and satisfying.
• No Stirring: After adding the uncooked shell pasta, resist the urge to stir. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking throughout your Instant Pot Beef and Shells.
• Adjust Creaminess: Depending on your preference, adjust the amount of heavy cream added. For a thicker sauce, use less broth and more cream; for a lighter version, do the opposite.
• Custom Spice Level: Feel free to modify the crushed red pepper to suit your taste. For a milder flavor, you can omit it altogether.
• Cook Time Precautions: If your ground beef is frozen, avoid using it directly in the recipe to ensure proper cooking and texture. Thaw beforehand for best results.
Storage Tips for Instant Pot Beef and Shells
Fridge: Store any leftover Instant Pot Beef and Shells in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures the flavors stay intact for your next meal.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months—just remember to reheat thoroughly!
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth for extra creaminess if needed.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for an even better texture and flavor!
Instant Pot Beef and Shells Variations
Customize your Instant Pot Beef and Shells experience with these quick and tasty twists that will delight your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version that remains creamy and inviting.
- Vegetable Boost: Add finely chopped spinach or bell peppers during the sauté step for added nutrition and color. They’ll melt into the dish beautifully!
- Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, include diced jalapeños or a tsp of your favorite hot sauce to the mix for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheesy Twist: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor profile that adds a touch of delicious complexity.
- Pasta Swap: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free shell pasta to align with dietary preferences while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
- Italian Flair: Include a splash of balsamic vinegar before pressure cooking to enhance the overall taste with a sweet and tangy depth that’s simply delightful.
- Protein Variety: Substitute half the ground beef with Italian sausage for a hearty, flavorful meat combination that sings with savory spices.
- One-Pot Wonder: For an all-in-one meal, toss in some frozen peas or corn right before sealing the Instant Pot; they’ll cook perfectly alongside the pasta.
Feel free to experiment! And if you’re in the mood for more comforting dishes, you might also enjoy our Italian Beef Sandwich or One Pot Skillet Salmon recipes to keep your kitchen buzzing with warmth and flavor!
Instant Pot Beef and Shells Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using 90% lean ground beef. This ensures a hearty base without excessive grease that can dilute the creaminess of your sauce. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey is a great substitute that works just as well in this Instant Pot Beef and Shells dish!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Instant Pot Beef and Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just ensure the container is sealed well to keep those flavors intact. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, a quick microwave reheat will bring back its creamy goodness!
Can I freeze this dish, and if so, how?
Absolutely! If you want to save some for later, divide the Instant Pot Beef and Shells into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stove. If it seems a bit thick after freezing, add a splash of beef broth or cream to bring back that luscious texture.
What should I do if my pasta is sticking together?
Very important! If you find that your pasta is sticking together, it’s often due to stirring it after adding. To prevent this, simply push the uncooked shell pasta gently into the sauce without stirring. Make sure the pasta is submerged in liquid before you seal the Instant Pot, and it should cook perfectly without sticking.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you have any allergies, this recipe contains dairy, specifically heavy cream and cheddar cheese. For a dairy-free version, consider swapping these ingredients for coconut cream and nutritional yeast, which can still provide a deliciously creamy flavor. Always double-check your broth too, as some brands may contain gluten or other allergens.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely amp up the nutritional value by adding veggies. Try incorporating chopped spinach or diced bell peppers after sautéing the onions, allowing them to cook until tender before moving on to the next steps. This not only boosts nutrition but adds vibrant color to your dish!
Instant Pot Beef and Shells: Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by pressing the sauté button on your Instant Pot. Once heated, add the lean ground beef and cook until it’s browned, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart, ensuring it browns evenly. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and return the beef to the pot.
- Next, add the diced yellow onion to the browned beef in the Instant Pot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Sauté everything together for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Pour in ½ cup of reduced-sodium beef broth, using a spatula to scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pot. This process, known as deglazing, helps to incorporate all those flavorful morsels into your sauce.
- Add uncooked shell pasta, crushed tomatoes, and the remaining beef broth to the pot. Carefully push the pasta down into the sauce, but avoid stirring to prevent sticking.
- Seal the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring it's locked in place, and set it to manual high pressure for 4 minutes.
- After the cooking time, carefully perform a quick release by turning the steam release handle to venting. Once the safety pin drops, you can open the lid.
- Stir in the heavy cream and half of the grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Top with the remaining cheese before serving.
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