✅ Ingredients
For the Beef Sauce
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Cheesy Finish
- 2 cups medium pasta shells (uncooked)
- 4 oz (½ block) cream cheese
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- (Optional) 1 cup shredded mozzarella for extra cheesiness
🍳 How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef and Shells
1. Brown the Beef
- In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned.
- Add onions + garlic and cook until softened (2–3 minutes).
- Drain grease.
2. Build the Slow Cooker Base
Add to the slow cooker:
- browned beef + onions + garlic
- tomato sauce
- diced tomatoes
- beef broth
- paprika
- Italian seasoning
- salt + pepper
Stir well.
3. Slow Cook
- Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours
or - HIGH for 2–3 hours
4. Add Pasta Shells
- Stir in the uncooked pasta shells.
- Cook on HIGH for 20–25 minutes, until pasta is tender.
5. Add the Cheese
- Add cream cheese and stir until melted.
- Add cheddar (and mozzarella if using).
- Mix until the sauce becomes creamy, cheesy, and thick.
6. Serve
- Let rest 5 minutes so the sauce thickens.
- Serve warm with extra cheese on top.
⭐ Tips for the Best Cheesy Beef & Shells
- If sauce is too thick → add a splash of warm milk or broth.
- If too thin → let sit uncovered for a few minutes.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Add spinach or peas for a veggie boost.