Name: Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 3 cups medium pasta shells; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed; 1 cup milk; 1 ½ cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

There are comfort foods, and then there are soul-hugging, creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed meals like Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells. Imagine coming home after a long day to the irresistible aroma of savory ground beef, tangy ranch seasoning, and tender pasta shells simmering gently in a velvety cheese sauce. This dish is your shortcut to a cozy night in without spending hours at the stove.

Perfect for busy families, weeknight dinners, or meal prep Sundays, this hearty pasta dish comes together in your slow cooker with minimal effort. The ranch seasoning brings a zesty kick, while the gooey cheddar and cream cheese blend creates that luxurious mouthfeel we crave in comfort food. It’s rich, kid-approved, and endlessly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta

Effortless Cooking: Just brown the beef and let the slow cooker do the rest.
Incredibly Creamy: Thanks to cream cheese, cheddar, and a splash of milk.
Family Favorite: Loved by picky eaters and adults alike.
Freezer-Friendly: Save leftovers or prep ahead for busy weeks.

What Kind of Pasta Shells Should I Use?

Medium-sized pasta shells work best because they hold onto all that creamy ranch cheese sauce in their ridges and hollows. Avoid using tiny shells as they may get mushy in the slow cooker, and jumbo shells are better reserved for stuffing recipes.

Ingredients for the Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells

The magic behind this recipe is in the balance of savory meat, rich cheese, and zesty ranch. Here are the key players:

Ground beef: The meaty backbone of this recipe, offering deep flavor and protein.
Pasta shells: Perfectly shaped to scoop up all the creamy sauce.
Ranch seasoning mix: Adds bold, herby flavor that pairs beautifully with beef and cheese.
Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey perfection.
Cream cheese: For a silky texture that thickens the sauce.
Milk: Helps the cheese melt and blend smoothly.
Beef broth: Adds savory depth and keeps everything moist.
Garlic powder & onion powder: Bring that extra boost of flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning everything just right.

How To Make the Crockpot Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Shells

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Prep the Base

Transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker. Add ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and beef broth. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Flavors

Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours. This gives the flavors time to meld and develop richness.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Add cream cheese (cubed) and shredded cheddar. Stir well until both are fully melted and incorporated.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta Separately

Boil pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Mix & Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and stir to coat everything in the cheesy ranch sauce. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to soak up the flavor. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Serving and Storing Your Cheesy Ranch Pasta Shells

This recipe comfortably serves 4 to 6 people, making it ideal for family meals or leftovers for lunch the next day.

To store: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Cool completely and freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
To reheat: Add a splash of milk while reheating to keep the sauce creamy.