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These Carbs Don't Count
These Carbs Don't CountVerified

May 13, 2025

15 Ingredients
MEDIUM

This Pesto Mac & Cheese Shells recipe is a creamy, cheesy twist on a comfort classic with a herby upgrade. Tender pasta shells are coated in a velvety cheese sauce made with garlic, butter, heavy cream, and a trio of cheeses. Pesto adds an earthy, aromatic depth that transforms the dish into something truly special. Finished with a touch of reserved pasta water for silky texture and topped with extra Parmesan, this pasta is cozy and indulgent.

Pesto Mac & Cheese Shells
Pesto Mac & Cheese Shells
Pesto Mac & Cheese Shells
Pesto Mac & Cheese Shells cover
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/4

Pesto Mac & Cheese Shells

By
These Carbs Don't Count
These Carbs Don't CountVerified

Ingredients

bowls
Milk and 6 other allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

1
|
Cook pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
2
|
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3
|
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
4
|
Stir in pesto and mix until evenly combined.
5
|
Lower the heat and add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6
|
Add the cooked pasta shells and a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and adjust consistency if needed.
7
|
Top with additional Parmesan before serving.
Bite Tutorial

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My Calorie Intake

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

  • Pasta Water Magic 💧
    Always reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining - it's the secret to creating a silky, emulsified sauce that helps the pesto and cheese coat the shells perfectly.
  • Pesto Flavor Bomb 🌿
    Toast the garlic briefly in butter before adding other ingredients to unlock a deeper, more complex flavor profile that will elevate the entire mac and cheese.
  • Cheese Melting Technique 🧀
    Remove the sauce from direct heat and add cheeses gradually, stirring constantly to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Shell Selection Secret 🐚
    Choose medium to large pasta shells that can fully capture both the cheese sauce and pesto, creating perfect flavor pockets in every bite.
  • Parmesan Finishing Touch 🧂
    Grate fresh Parmesan cheese at the table for maximum flavor and a luxurious, restaurant-quality presentation that adds a final layer of richness.

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About the Cook

These Carbs Don't Count

These Carbs Don't Count

Verified

Hi! I’m Angela and if you’re reading this you probably love carbs & pasta and you’ve come to the right place. I’m so excited to share delicious recipes, cooking tips, gluten free life & restaurant recs! Welcome carbies and subscribe for more content! Link above :)

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