Description
Looking for the ultimate easy dinner that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor? These Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells are the answer. Tender pasta shells simmer in a cheesy ranch-flavored sauce with savory ground beef — all made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This recipe checks every box: quick prep, kid-friendly, high-protein, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you need easy dinner ideas, comfort food recipes, or just something hearty to fill up hungry mouths, this is one you’ll want to save in your regular meal rotation.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
3 cups medium pasta shells (uncooked)
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
4 cups beef broth
4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer cooked beef to your crockpot. Add ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours to let the flavors meld.
4. About 30–40 minutes before serving, add uncooked pasta shells, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and heavy cream. Stir gently.
5. Continue cooking until pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy, about 30 minutes more. Stir once or twice during this time if possible.
6. Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Serve warm and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and creamy texture.
Add the pasta only in the last 30–40 minutes to avoid overcooking.
If reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to refresh the creamy sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: easy dinner, pasta recipe, crockpot recipe, cheesy ranch pasta, beef pasta, slow cooker pasta