Looking for a quick, creamy, and comforting meal that the whole family will love? This Instant Pot Creamy Shells and Beef is the perfect one-pot dinner that’s ready in minutes!
Think of it as homemade Hamburger Helper, but better! Tender pasta shells, ground beef, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce come together in the pressure cooker for a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s also kid-friendly!
With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast and delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1-pound box medium shell pasta
- 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
- 3 cups of water
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1 ) Turn Instant Pot to saute setting, and wait for the display to turn to HOT, add olive oil and onions, and cook until slightly soft.
2 ) Add ground beef, break up with a spatula, and cook until no longer pink, stirring frequently to make sure it doesn’t stick to the pot.
3 ) Season with sea salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder, and hit CANCEl
4 ) Add shells over ground beef, then add the marinara sauce and water. Do not stir, but press lightly with a spoon to ensure the pasta is completely covered with sauce and water.
5 ) Place lid on Instant Pot, close, and make sure vent is set to SEALING position.
6 ) Hit PRESSURE COOK for 5 minutes, or half the cooking time on the box of pasta.
7 ) When pressure cooking is done, do a quick release, then remove the lid and hit CANCEl to turn cooker off.
8 ) Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and serve!
- Kitchen Gadgets Reviews:
- Best Microwaves For Your Kitchen
- Best Air Fryers To Buy
- Best Espresso Machines
- GoWISE Air Fryer How To Use And Review
Pro Tips for the Best Instant Pot Creamy Shells and Beef
- Use Lean Ground Beef – 85% lean or higher keeps the dish rich without being greasy.
- Brown the Beef First – Sautéing the beef enhances the flavor before pressure cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Follow the recommended cook time to keep the shells tender but not mushy.
- Add Heavy Cream at the End – Stir in cream after cooking for extra smoothness and richness.
- Customize the Flavor – Add garlic, red pepper flakes, or Italian seasoning for extra depth.
- Top with Cheese – A sprinkle of Parmesan or shredded mozzarella takes it to the next level!
- Some Recommended Products:
- 48 Inch Gas Range 6 Burners Cooktop 6.7 cu.ft Oven
- Professional Series Built-In All Refrigerator
- Mini Refrigerator, 2-Door 3.4 cu. ft. Small Compact Under Counter
(FAQ) About Instant Pot Creamy Shells and Beef
1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
- Yes! Rotini, penne, or macaroni work, but adjust the cooking time slightly.
2. Can I make this recipe with ground turkey instead of beef?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative.
3. How do I prevent a burn warning in the Instant Pot?
- Make sure to deglaze the pot after browning the beef by scraping up any bits before pressure cooking.
4. Can I use a different type of cream?
- Yes! Substitute half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
5. How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
6. Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes! Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with a splash of milk.
7. Can I make this dish spicy?
- Yes! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or spicy sausage for a kick.
8. What can I serve with this dish?
- A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly!
9. Can I make this dairy-free?
- Yes! Use coconut milk or dairy-free cream alternatives.
10. What’s the best way to reheat this meal?
- Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a little milk to keep it creamy.
-
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff
- Snickerdoodle Bread is Pure Heaven
- Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit
