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Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta That Wraps You in Comfort

Indulge in Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta, a comforting dish that embraces you with rich flavors and creamy sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Shells
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For searing steak
For the Steak and Sauce
  • 1 pound Steak (sirloin or flank) Substitute with chicken or turkey if desired
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and flavor
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh, minced for best results
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Can substitute with Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half works for a lighter option
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano is an alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Can use fresh herbs if preferred
  • to taste none Salt & Pepper Essential for seasoning

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • Colander
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sear the Steak: Season steak cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 3–4 minutes on each side. Remove and keep warm.
  3. Prepare the Aromatic Base: In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and thyme; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Combine Steak and Aromatics: Return seared steak to skillet, tossing with garlic mixture for 1 minute. Remove from heat.
  5. Create the Creamy Sauce: Melt additional butter in skillet. Add garlic, stir for 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
  6. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in Parmesan and Italian seasoning, adjusting with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add cooked pasta to sauce, tossing to coat. Fold in steak until heated through.
  8. Serve and Garnish: Serve hot garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, keep pasta al dente, and customize with vegetables if desired. The sauce can be made ahead and reheated with the pasta.

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