One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells

Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Imagine a pot simmering with the savor of Italian herbs, the richness of creamy cheese, and the kick of spicy sausage wafting through your kitchen. That’s what you get with this dreamy One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells recipe! It’s quick, hassle-free, and perfect for when you’re craving comfort food without a mountain of dishes to clean afterward. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why make this recipe?

Who doesn’t love a one-pan wonder? Here are a few reasons to keep this recipe on speed dial:

• Simple Cleanup: One pot means less scrubbing, more eating. Can I get an amen?
• Super Affordable: You won’t break the bank with these ingredients. Dinner that’s tasty and budget-friendly? Yes, please!
• Family-Favorite: It’s got cheese and sausage; what’s not to love? Even your picky eaters are guaranteed to ask for seconds.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 1 pound hot Italian sausage
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups uncooked medium shells
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
• Salt & pepper to taste

Directions

Follow these easy steps for a delightful dinner:

1. Brown the sausage and onions in a pot for 7-10 minutes until the sausage is cooked through and the onions are translucent.
2. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and oregano.
3. Add beef broth and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Stir in uncooked shells, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for 12-13 minutes until shells are al dente.
5. Incorporate Velveeta cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to make One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells (Overview)

Cooking this dish is like a mini cooking adventure! Start by browning your sausage and onions—this is where the magic begins.

Pro tip: Don’t skip browning those onions; they add a depth of flavor that will elevate your dish. Then, toss in your spices and broth, and let the bubbling commence! Once you stir in those shells, it starts to look like real food. Just let it simmer until the pasta is cooked and then mix in that ooey-gooey cheese for ultimate creaminess. Easy peasy, right?

How to serve One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells

Serve this goodness straight from the pot for a casual family dinner that’ll have everyone saying, “Wow, what’s in that?” You can sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color, or add a side of crusty garlic bread for a bit of crunch. The aroma alone will have your guests drooling before they even sit down!

How to store One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just pop it in an airtight container. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze it for up to 2 months—just remember to let it cool completely before freezing. When it’s time for a reheat, warm it on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to bring back that creamy goodness.

Tips to make One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells

Here are a few insider tricks to level up your dish:

• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Pasta swap: Use any of your favorite pasta shapes—macaroni works like a charm!
• Make it lighter: Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half if you want a slightly lighter version without losing creaminess.
• Cheese options: Don’t have Velveeta? Use any creamy cheese that melts well, like cream cheese or mozzarella.

Variation

Want a new twist? Change things up by swapping the Italian sausage for ground turkey or a meat substitute to make it healthier or even vegan! Toss in spinach or bell peppers for a colorful veggie boost. Who said comfort food can’t be versatile?

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and serve!

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or even a plant-based cream for a lighter option.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just reheat gently on the stove.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells

A quick and delicious one-pot dish featuring Italian sausage, cheese, and pasta, perfect for family dinners.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 600

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound hot Italian sausage
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• 2 cups uncooked medium shells Can substitute with other pasta shapes.
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed Other creamy cheeses like cream cheese or mozzarella can be used.
• Salt & pepper to taste

Method

 

Cooking Steps

1. Brown the sausage and onions in a pot for 7-10 minutes until the sausage is cooked through and the onions are translucent.
2. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and oregano.
3. Add beef broth and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Stir in uncooked shells, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for 12-13 minutes until shells are al dente.
5. Incorporate Velveeta cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve straight from the pot for a casual family dinner. For added flavor, sprinkle fresh parsley on top and pair with garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or milk.