Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Creamy Garlic Shells recipe is your answer. It's a quick, healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Get ready to experience a burst of garlicky goodness in every bite! This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shell pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be golden, not brown.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it's melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy garlic sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade cooking!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Shells:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides a much more vibrant flavor than pre-minced garlic.
- Low and slow for the garlic: Gentle cooking prevents the garlic from burning and becoming bitter.
- Adjust the creaminess: Add more or less heavy cream depending on your preference.
- Garnish generously: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
Variations:
- Add protein: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be delicious additions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make it cheesy: Incorporate different cheeses like mozzarella or Asiago for a richer flavor.
- Veggie boost: Sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes with the garlic.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on variations)
- Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: High
This Creamy Garlic Shells recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. The creamy garlic sauce is irresistible, and the whole dish comes together in under 20 minutes. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Give it a try and let us know what you think! We're sure this will become one of your best recipes. Enjoy!