Seashells And Mushrooms And Basil Cream Sauce
Creamy seashell pasta with sautéed mushrooms and fragrant basil, offering a rich and savory flavor perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal or dinner party dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni shells according to package directions, then drain.
- While pasta is cooking, heat a nonstick skillet over high heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet.
- Sprinkle mushrooms with dried basil, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Cook mushrooms for 5 minutes or until tender, stirring frequently.
- In a separate saucepan, whisk together all-purpose flour and evaporated skim milk over medium heat until thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine cooked pasta with mushroom basil sauce and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh basil instead of dried; just double the amount. You can substitute any type of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, if shells aren't available. To enhance the creaminess, try adding a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese. If you want a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like Manicotti With Spinach And Cheese Crepes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through, as this helps maintain the creaminess without overcooking the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seashells And Mushrooms And Basil Cream Sauce contains roughly 348 calories, with 15g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mushroom sauce in advance and store it separately from the pasta. Combine them just before serving to keep the pasta from becoming mushy. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick meal during busy nights.
What kind of mushrooms work best for this recipe?
If you prefer a lighter dish, consider using less cheese or a lower-fat milk alternative, like almond or oat milk.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can enhance the dish and make it more filling. This is a great way to customize the recipe to your tastes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).