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Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells Recipe

Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells Recipe

5 from 16 reviews

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells recipe combines tender ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and zesty ranch seasoning with tender pasta shells and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting and easy meal perfect for busy days.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) beef broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 8 ounces medium pasta shells
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat to reduce grease and improve flavor.
  2. Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker. Add the ranch seasoning mix, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Stir everything well to combine flavors.
  3. Slow cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours to allow the beef and seasonings to meld together perfectly.
  4. Add pasta shells: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked pasta shells. Cover and continue cooking until the pasta is tender, about 30 minutes.
  5. Mix in cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and blends evenly throughout the dish, giving it a creamy, cheesy texture.
  6. Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

  • To reduce cooking time, use pre-cooked pasta shells added at the end just to warm through.
  • For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
  • Feel free to swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a cheese blend for different flavors.
  • If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup as alternatives.
  • Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker beef pasta, cheesy ranch pasta, easy slow cooker dinner, beef pasta shells, ranch beef recipe, creamy beef pasta