Shells with Parmesan Cream and Mushroom Recipe

Shells with Parmesan Cream and Mushrooms is a fantastic recipe that chefs will absolutely love. The dish combines the rich flavors of mushrooms, garlic, and parmesan cheese with the creamy texture of a luscious sauce, served over perfectly cooked small shell pasta. This versatile recipe can be adapted to suit individual tastes and dietary requirements, while offering a range of health benefits and nutritional value.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz small shells (preferably Food Club® brand)
• 4 Tbsp butter, divided (preferably Food Club® brand)
• 8 oz crimini (baby bella) mushrooms, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 Tbsp flour (preferably Food Club® brand)
• 1/4 tsp salt (preferably Food Club® brand)
• 1 cup chicken broth (preferably Food Club® brand)
• 1 cup half & half (preferably Food Club® brand)
• 2/3 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese (preferably Food Club® brand)
• 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (preferably Food Club® brand)
• 1/4 tsp paprika (preferably Food Club® brand)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions, drain, do not rinse.
2. Meanwhile, melt 2 Tbsp butter in a large saucepan. Add mushrooms and cook over medium heat until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook 2 minutes longer.
4. Stir in flour and salt; gradually stir in broth then half & half.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and cook, stirring, until thickened, about 3 minutes.
6. Add cheese and parsley; stir until cheese is melted.
7. Stir in hot, drained pasta.
8. Melt remaining butter in a small skillet, stir in breadcrumbs and paprika.
9. Cook just until crumbs are lightly toasted, about 1 minute; sprinkle crumbs over pasta.

Serving size:

Makes 4 servings

Four Additional Spices to Enhance Flavor:

1. Thyme: Add 1/2 tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh thyme during the mushroom cooking process for an earthy flavor.
2. Rosemary: Add 1/2 tsp dried rosemary or 1 tsp fresh rosemary during the mushroom cooking process for a fragrant touch.
3. Nutmeg: Add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg to the sauce for a warm, nutty flavor.
4. Crushed red pepper flakes: Add 1/4 tsp to the sauce for a hint of heat.

Cooking Tips:

• Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce.
• Use a mix of different mushroom varieties, such as shiitake or oyster, for a more complex flavor profile.

Serving and Side Suggestions:

• Serve with a side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• Pair with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Variations:

• Add cooked, diced chicken or cooked, crumbled Italian sausage for a heartier dish.
• Stir in sautéed spinach or kale for added color and nutrients.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Substitute gluten-free flour and pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Use dairy-free margarine and dairy-free cream alternative for a dairy-free option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, gently warm the dish in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creaminess. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Leftover Suggestions:

• Transform leftovers into a baked pasta dish by combining them with additional vegetables and grated cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• Use leftovers as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or portobello mushroom caps. Bake at 350°F (180°C) until the filling is heated through and the peppers or mushrooms are tender.

Health Benefits:

• Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which support a healthy immune system and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Garlic offers a range of health-promoting properties, such as lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease.
• Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and phosphorus, essential for strong bones and teeth.

Nutrition Information

(per serving):

• Calories: 582 kcal
• Protein: 23 g
• Carbohydrates: 62 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Cholesterol: 76 mg
• Sodium: 994 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 4 g

RDA Values:

• Vitamin D: 7% (Mushrooms)
• Calcium: 38% (Parmesan cheese)
• Vitamin C: 9% (Parsley)
• Iron: 13% (Pasta)

Shopping List:

• Small shells (8 oz)
• Butter (4 Tbsp)
• Crimini (baby bella) mushrooms (8 oz)
• Garlic (3 cloves)
• Flour (3 Tbsp)
• Salt (1/4 tsp)
• Chicken broth (1 cup)
• Half & half (1 cup)
• Parmesan cheese (2/3 cup)
• Fresh parsley (2 Tbsp)
• Panko breadcrumbs (1/3 cup)
• Paprika (1/4 tsp)

Shells with Parmesan Cream and Mushrooms is a delicious and versatile dish that chefs will love for its ease of preparation, adaptability, and depth of flavor. The recipe can be easily customized with a range of spices, ingredient substitutions, and variations to suit individual tastes and dietary needs, making it a winning choice for any kitchen.