Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Saucy White Cheddar Shells and Cheese! This creamy, cheesy delight is not just a meal; it's a warm hug on a plate that will transport you back to childhood memories. With just 20 minutes of your time, you can whip up a dish that serves four and leaves everyone craving more. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Ready to dive into the velvety goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta shells
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta shells to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes foamy and starts to bubble.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. This helps prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to incorporate the roux and create a smooth base. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded white cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Drain the cooked pasta shells in a colander, shaking off excess water.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce over the cooked pasta shells, stirring gently to ensure each shell is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately while the cheese sauce is hot and creamy. Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or additional black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta shells al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the cheese sauce. This ensures they maintain a delightful bite!
- Cheese Choices: While white cheddar is the star of this recipe, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
- Smooth Sauce: To avoid lumps in your cheese sauce, whisk continuously while adding the milk to the roux. This will help create a silky smooth texture.
- Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste your cheese sauce before combining it with the pasta to ensure it’s seasoned to perfection.
- Garnish for Flair: For an extra touch, consider garnishing your dish with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for color and flavor.
- Make it a Meal: Add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach to the mix for a heartier dish that’s packed with nutrients.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg
