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Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta

Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta that Makes Dinner Delightful

Indulge in Creamy Parmesan Shell Pasta, a rich and customizable dish perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests.
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 Feel free to try different shapes if desired.
For the Garlic Butter Steak
  • 1 pound Steak (sirloin or flank) Juicy and tender; swap for chicken or turkey if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with any cooking oil.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Consider using plant-based butter for dairy-free.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Dried thyme works just as well.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Switch to vegetable broth for vegetarian.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half or dairy-free cream can be used.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano makes a good alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Adjust with herbs based on taste.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Boil and Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring to a boil and cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sear the Steak: Season steak with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak in a single layer and cook 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter, minced garlic, and thyme. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Combine Steak with Garlic Butter: Return seared steak to skillet with garlic butter. Toss to coat and cook for about 1 minute.
  5. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a clean skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter. Add more minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning until fully melted and sauce is creamy.
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add drained pasta shells to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat.
  8. Final Touch with Steak: Fold in garlic butter steak cubes, combining everything well.
  9. Serve and Garnish: Plate the dish hot, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy. Adjust seasonings after adding cheese since Parmesan is salty.

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