Creamy White Cheddar Shells with Shrimp and Peas Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting and flavorful dish, look no further. This creamy white cheddar shells with shrimp and peas recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. Combining the richness of cheddar cheese, the freshness of shrimp, and the sweetness of peas, it’s a meal that’s sure to delight every palate. Perfectly cooked pasta shells cradle this decadent combination, making it hard to resist another helping.

When I first stumbled upon this dish during a family get-together, it became an instant hit. My grandmother, a culinary wizard, had a knack for transforming simple ingredients into something magical. I remember her winking at me as she added her secret blend of spices. Her rendition, although slightly different, inspired me to create my own version that has now become a staple in my family’s recipe book.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is not just about delicious flavors; it’s about convenience and satisfaction. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your recipe collection:

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under half an hour, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Rich and Creamy: The sharpness of the cheddar complements the tender shrimp beautifully.
• Family-Friendly: An all-ages favorite, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal pots and pans mean less cleanup.

Ingredients Notes

Gather these simple ingredients to create a dish you’ll be proud to serve:

• Pasta Shells: Opt for medium-sized shells that hold the sauce well, but other pasta shapes like penne can work too.
• White Cheddar Cheese: Look for aged cheddar for a deeper flavor. You can substitute with gruyere if you prefer.
• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined. Try to source sustainably caught seafood.
• Peas: Fresh is best for this recipe, but frozen peas can be used for convenience.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 2

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then add shrimp. Cook until pink and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3

Using the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add more butter. Stir in flour to create a roux, then slowly whisk in milk. Allow the mixture to thicken slightly.

Step 4

Add white cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Step 5

Return shrimp to the skillet and add peas. Stir gently to combine. Mix in cooked pasta shells and serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk and warm gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with this versatile dish! Here are some ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit shrimp and add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for a veggie-packed alternative.
• Spicier Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce for a hint of heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While white cheddar has a unique sharpness, you can substitute with cheeses like gruyere or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just make sure to select a cheese that melts well.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
To keep the cheese sauce smooth, make sure to use freshly grated cheese and remove the pan from heat before adding it. Gradually stir it in to allow it to melt evenly without overheating.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce ends up too thick, simply add more pasta water or milk a small amount at a time until you get the desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning if necessary after diluting.

Creamy White Cheddar Shells with Shrimp and Peas Recipe

This delicious recipe combines tender shrimp and sweet peas with creamy white cheddar shells for a comforting weeknight dinner.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 8 oz medium shrimp peeled and deveined
• ▢ 1 cup frozen peas thawed
• ▢ 1 cup white cheddar cheese shredded
• ▢ 1 lb shell pasta cooked
• ▢ 1 tbsp olive oil
• ▢ 2 tbsp butter
• ▢ 1 clove garlic minced
• ▢ 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
• Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
• Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
• Reduce heat to low and add cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
• Add cooked pasta shells and peas to the skillet, tossing to combine.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.