- VE

May 13, 2025
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.
Instructions
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Review & Earn
Be the first to review this recipe and earn a 20% Bonus
Level up & unlock free Premium by reviewing recipes!
My Notes
Your kitchen notebook is waiting.
Whether it's a recipe tweak or an inspiration burst — jot it down here.
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.
Intelligent Tags
Recommended Recipe Products

EHOMEA2Z

HIWARE

Urban Noon

Laxinis World

DOWAN

Delling

Folkuture

Blue Diamond

All Clad

ZEPELOFFY



Pesto Mac & Cheese Shells
More Recipes by These Carbs Don't Count
Check out more These Carbs Don't Count content!Browse These Carbs Don't Count recipes!
No Recipes Available
Looking for more?
Use our smart searchtool, explore by category, or browse your customized food feed.




































