One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage And Shells
One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells is a comforting, delicious dish that can be whipped up with minimal effort. This hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending all evening in the kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
This One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First and foremost, it combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with creamy, cheesy goodness, making it incredibly satisfying. The one-pot method means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal with family or friends. Plus, it’s versatile! You can modify it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to enjoy a cozy dinner, this recipe has you covered.
How to Make One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage And Shells
This delightful dish comes together in a simple, straightforward process that even novice cooks can master. Follow these steps for a delicious and hearty meal!
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
- 2 cups uncooked medium shells
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
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In a large pot, brown the sausage and onions over medium heat for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring until the sausage is cooked through and the onions are softened.
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Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and dried oregano, allowing the flavors to meld for about a minute.
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Add the beef broth and heavy cream, bring the mixture to a boil.
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Once boiling, stir in the uncooked medium shells, then reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 12 to 13 minutes, or until the shells are cooked al dente.
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Incorporate the cubed Velveeta cheese into the mix, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
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Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Success with One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage And Shells
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Choose the Right Sausage: For a bit of spice, go for hot Italian sausage. If you prefer milder flavors, sweet Italian sausage works beautifully too.
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Watch the Pasta: Keep an eye on the shells while they simmer to prevent overcooking, which can lead to mushy pasta.
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Don’t Rush the Cheese: Allow the Velveeta to melt slowly for the creamiest texture. Stirring continuously ensures an even cheese distribution throughout the dish.
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Season to Taste: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for more heat.
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Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in some fresh basil or parsley just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Flavor Variations for One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage And Shells
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or chopped mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian variation.
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Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
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Different Cheeses: Mix things up by using a blend of cheeses. A mozzarella or cheddar blend can give you a different flavor profile while maintaining that creamy texture.
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Spicy Twist: Add some crushed red pepper flakes during cooking for those who enjoy an extra kick.
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Creamy Tomato Variation: Use marinara sauce instead of tomato paste for a tomato-heavy flavor, enhancing the Italian essence of the dish.
Serving Suggestions for One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage And Shells
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with a few sides. Consider serving it with:
- A simple garden salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks, perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
- Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, to add a healthy contrast to the meal.
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of each serving for an extra touch of cheesiness.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage And Shells
To store One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For freezing, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers after cooling. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|———–|———|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbs | 35g |
| Fat | 35g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 750mg |
FAQ About One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage And Shells
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, opt for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
How spicy is the dish?
The recipe calls for hot Italian sausage, which adds a nice level of spice. If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to use sweet Italian sausage instead. You can also adjust the spice level by adding or omitting any additional pepper or seasoning.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve. Just be mindful that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you might want to add a dash of beef broth or cream to loosen it up.
What can I use in place of Velveeta cheese?
If you’re looking for a different cheese experience, consider using shredded cheddar cheese or a combination of cheeses. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the quantity to achieve the desired creaminess.
How can I enhance the flavor even more?
Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end of cooking can brighten up the dish. You might also consider adding a splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving for a touch of acidity.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells is a versatile, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Its creamy, cheesy goodness and delightful flavors are sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking to whip up something quick on a weeknight or impress your guests at a dinner party, this recipe has you covered. Enjoy the comforting satisfaction of a home-cooked meal with less hassle—what could be better? Give it a try, and you’ll find it becomes a staple in your recipe rotation!
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One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and delicious one-pot meal combining Italian sausage with creamy, cheesy pasta shells, perfect for busy weeknights.
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
- 2 cups uncooked medium shells
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the sausage and onions over medium heat for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring until the sausage is cooked through and the onions are softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and dried oregano, allowing the flavors to meld for about a minute.
- Add the beef broth and heavy cream, bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, stir in the uncooked medium shells, then reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 12 to 13 minutes, or until the shells are cooked al dente.
- Incorporate the cubed Velveeta cheese into the mix, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian