Recipe Bite Video - OnlineCook

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.

15 Ingredients

Ingredients

bowls

Warning0 allergens identified

Instructions

Cook pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Stir in pesto and mix until evenly combined.

Lower the heat and add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.

Add the cooked pasta shells and a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and adjust consistency if needed.

Top with additional Parmesan before serving.

Bite Tutorial

Smart Nutrition

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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