This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta features tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich, cheesy mixture and baked in a silky garlic Parmesan cream sauce until bubbling and beautifully golden. The combination of buttery garlic, cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, herbs, and tender pasta creates a comforting restaurant-style dinner that is perfect for family meals, cozy weekends, or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love It
- Rich garlic Parmesan sauce with a smooth, creamy texture
- Tender pasta shells packed with an irresistible cheesy filling
- Golden melted mozzarella makes every bite extra comforting
- Perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or make-ahead meals
Ingredients Overview
Pasta Shells
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, for the pasta water
Creamy Cheese Filling
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Cheese Topping
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until just al dente according to the package directions.
Drain carefully and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Arrange the shells separately on a baking sheet or clean kitchen towel.
2. Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
Set aside while preparing the sauce.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously.
Add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and a small pinch of salt.
Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
Gradually stir in the Parmesan until melted and smooth.
4. Fill the Pasta Shells
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread about half of the garlic Parmesan sauce across the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
Spoon approximately 1½–2 tablespoons of the cheese filling into each cooked pasta shell.
Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in the prepared dish with the openings facing upward.
5. Add the Sauce and Cheese
Spoon the remaining garlic Parmesan sauce over and around the stuffed shells.
Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Make sure each shell has some sauce and cheese over the top for a creamy, golden finish.
6. Bake
Cover the baking dish loosely with foil.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is golden.
For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end while watching carefully.
7. Serve
Remove the pasta from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve warm with plenty of creamy garlic sauce spooned around each stuffed shell.
Cooking Tips
- Cook the pasta only until al dente so the shells stay firm enough to fill.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest cream sauce.
- Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent the dairy from separating.
- Drain spinach well if using frozen spinach to prevent a watery filling.
- Let the pasta rest briefly after baking so the filling stays inside the shells.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy garlic Parmesan pasta with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Garlic green beans
- Grilled chicken or salmon
Storage
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions gently. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
Leftover Ideas
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp before reheating for a heartier meal.
- Turn leftovers into a cheesy pasta casserole with extra mozzarella.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes. Fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or tortellini all pair beautifully with the garlic Parmesan sauce.
Can I add chicken or shrimp?
Yes. Cooked chicken, shrimp, crab, or even Italian sausage can be added to the filling or served over the pasta.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the stuffed shells up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Can I make the sauce lighter?
Yes. Replace part of the heavy cream with additional milk or chicken broth.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta combines tender stuffed shells, creamy cheese filling, buttery garlic, and a luxurious Parmesan sauce in one irresistible baked dinner. Rich, comforting, and beautifully golden, this recipe is perfect for family meals, entertaining, or anytime you want a restaurant-inspired pasta dish at home.
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