- Hands-Off Cooking : Prep everything in minutes, toss it in the crockpot, and let it do the work for you.
- Rich and Creamy : The combination of cream cheese, shredded cheese, and ranch seasoning creates a decadent sauce.
- Kid-Friendly : Picky eaters will love the cheesy, flavorful pasta, while adults will appreciate the convenience.
- Customizable : Add veggies, switch up the protein, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Serves 6–8)
For the Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning (about 1 oz, or use homemade blend)
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 12 oz medium pasta shells (uncooked)
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers for added veggies
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed. Transfer the beef to the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- To the slow cooker, add the cream cheese , sour cream , ranch seasoning , marinara sauce , beef broth , and uncooked pasta shells . Stir gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
3. Cook Low and Slow
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours , stirring halfway through if possible. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta can become mushy if left too long.
4. Add Cheese and Finish
- During the last 15–20 minutes of cooking, stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and any optional veggies (like frozen peas or spinach). Cover and let the cheese melt into the sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Scoop the cheesy pasta into bowls and garnish with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta : Check the pasta during the last hour of cooking to ensure it’s al dente. If it’s done before the sauce thickens, turn the crockpot to “warm” to avoid overcooking.
- Use Quality Ingredients : Opt for fresh shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Add Extra Veggies : Stir in sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or spinach for a nutrient boost.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells pairs beautifully with:
- A side of garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for soaking up every bit of sauce.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition.
- A cold glass of milk, soda, or sparkling water for a refreshing drink pairing.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and bursting with bold ranch flavor. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
So grab your ingredients, fire up the crockpot, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to devour. With its rich sauce, tender pasta, and savory beef, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. 🧀🍝✨