Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells

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When comfort food calls, few dishes answer like a steamy bowl of Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells. This recipe brings together tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, rich cheese, and ranch flavor into one ultra-creamy dish that practically cooks itself. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, it takes minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients tossed into the slow cooker, you’ll come home to a hearty, bubbling meal that fills your kitchen with savory aromas. It’s kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and crowd-approved — a must-have in your meal rotation.

What Kind of Pasta Shells Should I Use?

Small or medium pasta shells are ideal for this recipe. Their curved shape scoops up all that cheesy ranch sauce perfectly, making every bite flavorful. You could also use elbow macaroni or rotini if that’s what you have on hand, but shells do the best job of cradling the beef and cheese sauce.

Ingredients for the Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells

• Ground beef: The heart of this dish. It adds rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein.
• Pasta shells: These are perfect for catching all the cheesy sauce in every bite.
• Cream cheese: Adds luscious creaminess to the base of the sauce.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts down to create that gooey, cheesy texture we all love.
• Ranch seasoning: Infuses the dish with tangy, herby flavor that elevates the cheese.
• Beef broth: Helps cook the pasta and adds depth to the sauce.
• Milk: Lightens the richness while keeping the sauce smooth.
• Garlic powder & onion powder: Essential for boosting the savory profile.

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How To Make the Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.

Step 2: Set the Crockpot Base

Add the cooked beef, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, beef broth, and milk to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 3: Add the Pasta and Cook

Stir in the uncooked pasta shells, making sure they’re mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook on low for about 2 to 3 hours or until the pasta is tender.

Step 4: Make it Cheesy

Once the pasta is cooked, add the cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir gently until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Let it cook on warm for another 10 minutes to thicken.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Give the dish a final stir, taste for seasoning, and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.

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How to Store and Serve This Crockpot Pasta

This dish is best served warm right out of the crockpot. But the leftovers? Even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells?

Garlic Bread

That cheesy sauce deserves to be mopped up with something, and crusty garlic bread is just the thing.

Steamed Broccoli

A great way to add some green balance to your plate.

Caesar Salad

Crisp, creamy, and full of bite — Caesar salad pairs well with the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Carrots

The sweetness of roasted carrots offers a great contrast to the tangy ranch flavors.

Pickles or Pickled Veggies

If you like a little zing on the side, these are perfect.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love these Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells, you’ll definitely want to try these next:

• Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta: For another ultra-creamy beef pasta fix.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan: Comforting and full of garlic flavor.
• Smoky BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pasta Skillet: A bold twist on cheesy pasta.
• White Cheddar Chicken Pasta: Silky, tangy, and satisfying.
• Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight: A sweet and spicy comfort mash-up.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe spicy ranch or some crispy bacon bits? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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