Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) shell pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until tender but still slightly firm.
Before draining, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 to 60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
Cook over low to medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring until the Parmesan melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked shell pasta to the sauce and gently toss until every piece is coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the creamy sauce.
Remove from the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan if desired.
Method
Cook the shell pasta in salted boiling water until tender. Reserve some pasta water and drain.
Prepare the sauce by melting butter and gently sautéing minced garlic. Add heavy cream, Parmesan, seasonings, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta and toss thoroughly with the sauce. Add a small amount of pasta water if necessary to make the sauce silky and evenly coat the shells.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Benefits
This pasta provides carbohydrates for energy and protein from Parmesan cheese and cream. Garlic adds flavor and contains naturally occurring sulfur compounds. Using shell pasta also helps hold the creamy sauce, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Nutrition
Approximate nutrition per serving, based on 4 servings:
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 16 g
Carbohydrates: 58 g
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Calcium: 230 mg
Nutrition values can vary depending on the exact pasta, cream, butter, and Parmesan used.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Shell Pasta is a simple, comforting meal that can be prepared with everyday ingredients. The combination of tender shell pasta, buttery garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a rich and silky sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Serve it as a quick main dish or alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.