Creamy Garlic Shells Pasta: A Comforting & Delicious Meal

Looking for a rich, creamy, and easy-to-make pasta dish? Creamy Garlic Shells Pasta is the perfect comfort food! Made with tender pasta shells, a garlic-infused creamy sauce, and melty cheese, this dish is simple yet indulgent. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Easy & Quick – Ready in under 30 minutes. ✅ Ultra Creamy – A velvety, cheesy sauce coats every bite. ✅ Family-Friendly – Loved by both kids and adults. ✅ Customizable – Add veggies, protein, or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

To make Creamy Garlic Shells Pasta, you'll need:

Pasta:

• 2 cups medium shell pasta

• 4 cups water (for boiling)

• 1 teaspoon salt (for seasoning water)

Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)

• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

Cheese & Garnish:

• 1 cup shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (for extra creaminess)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the shell pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.

3. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw taste.

4. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

5. Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

6. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Add Cheese & Pasta

1. Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese until melted.

2. Add shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth.

3. Mix in the cooked shell pasta, tossing until fully coated in the creamy sauce.

4. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of cheese.

• Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

Tips for the Best Shells Pasta

• Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother, meltier sauce.

• For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.

• Make it veggie-packed by stirring in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.

• Adjust consistency by adding more broth or cream.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not only delicious but also comforting:

• Pasta provides energy from healthy carbohydrates.

• Garlic has immune-boosting properties.

• Cheese adds protein and calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to bring back creaminess.

What type of cheese works best?

Parmesan, cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free shell pasta and cornstarch instead of flour.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Shells Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or a side dish for a special dinner, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Love this recipe? Share it with family and friends, and let us know your favorite additions in the comments!