Shells N Spinach
Indulge in the creamy, satisfying comfort of "Shells N Spinach," a quick and easy weeknight dinner starring tender medium pasta shells and vibrant baby spinach in a luscious homemade Parmesan sauce. This one-pan wonder comes together in just 30 minutes, combining fragrant sautéed garlic, a velvety roux, and a rich blend of cream cheese and Parmesan for maximum flavor. A delicate balance of salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while the wilted spinach delivers a burst of freshness and nutritional goodness. Perfect for busy evenings, this family-friendly recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for an irresistible finishing touch.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 5 cups baby spinach
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the medium pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic, whisking constantly to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, to create a smooth sauce. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and tender.
Gently fold the cooked pasta shells into the sauce, ensuring all the pasta is evenly coated.
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
648 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.5 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.8 g | 79% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 71 mg | 24% | |
| Sodium | 777 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 76.0 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.9 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.7 g | ||
| Protein | 25.1 g | 50% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.7 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 432 mg | 33% | |
| Iron | 2.7 mg | 15% | |
| Potassium | 316 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
