One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells

Comfort in a Pot

Who could resist the mouthwatering aroma of Italian sausage sizzling away as the rich, creamy sauce envelops pasta shells? The magic happens with just one pot, making this a total game-changer for any home chef. One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells is all about quick prep, minimal cleanup, and flavors that tickle your taste buds. This dish went viral for good reason—it’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting.

Why Make This Recipe

You’ll fall head over heels for this recipe because:

• Easy Cleanup: Who needs a mountain of dishes after dinner? With only one pot involved, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing!
• Affordable and Accessible: This dish uses basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Seriously, it’s perfect for those “what can I make with what’s in the fridge?” moments.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will go wild for cheesy, saucy goodness. Let’s be real, who can say no to cheese? 🤤

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

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)

Let’s break it down: you’ll start by sautéing the sausage and onions until they’re perfectly browned and fragrant. Next, you’ll mix in your tomato paste and spices for that deep flavor layer. Time to add the broth and cream, then toss in those lovely shells! Just let them simmer until they’re al dente, and finally, stir in the Velveeta for that cheesy bliss. Pro tip: Don’t skip letting it rest for a few minutes—trust me, it makes all the difference!

How to Serve One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells

Spoon that creamy delight into bowls, and you’ve got a feast! Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, or sprinkle with some grated Parmesan for extra decadence. The aroma will fill your kitchen, tempting everyone to gather ’round the table. Pair it with a crispy green salad and a crusty piece of garlic bread, and you’ve got a cozy dinner that’s hard to beat! 🍽️

How to Store One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells

Got leftovers? No problem! This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to dive back in, just reheat in a pot over low heat and add a splash of milk or cream to bring back that creaminess. Easy peasy!

Tips to Make One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells

• Add Veggies: Sneak in some spinach or kale for a nutritional boost.
• Spice it Up: If you like a kick, throw in some red pepper flakes.
• Cream Alternatives: Swap heavy cream with half-and-half if you want a lighter sauce.
• Pasta Swap: Shells are fun, but you can use any pasta you have on hand—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Garnish to Impress: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil takes it to the next level! 🌱

Variation

Feeling adventurous? You can easily switch out the Italian sausage for chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Want it plant-based? Try using vegan sausage, coconut cream, and nut-based cheese to capture all the cheesy vibes without any animal products.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Switch it up with chicken sausage, turkey, or even a mild sausage if you prefer less heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture (excluding cheese) a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the cheese and heat it up when you’re ready to eat.

Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Just remember to keep it airtight, and when you reheat it, add a splash of cream to keep it creamy.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

One Pot Cheesy Italian Sausage and Shells

A creamy and cheesy pasta dish with Italian sausage that's easy to prepare and clean up, perfect for a comforting family meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound hot Italian sausage Can substitute with chicken or turkey sausage.
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped Use yellow or white onion.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups beef broth Can use chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
• 2 cups uncooked medium shells Any pasta can be used; adjust cooking time if necessary.
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed Can use nut-based cheese for a vegan version.
• Salt & pepper to taste

Method

 

Cooking

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

Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.