Shells and cheese is pure comfort in a bowl, with tender pasta shells wrapped in a silky blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella. A touch of Dijon adds bright tang, while smoked paprika brings gentle warmth. Sautéed mushrooms, sweet bell peppers, and fresh spinach add color and coziness, with a splash of veggie broth building extra savory depth. Finished with a sprinkle of golden breadcrumbs for crunch, this easy dish feels like a nostalgic family dinner and a relaxed Friday night all at once.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This shells and cheese
- It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting!
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins like veggies or proteins.
- Kid-approved and a hit with the whole family!
shells and cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook shells in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and simmer until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper, then add cooked shells and stir to coat.
- Serve hot and enjoy your creamy shells and cheese!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbs | 40g |
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious shells and cheese!
- 8 ounces pasta shells – your favorite brand will work well
- 2 tablespoons butter – unsalted for better control of flavor
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – for thickening the cheese sauce
- 2 cups milk – whole or 2% for creaminess
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – sharp or mild depending on preference
- salt – to taste
- pepper – to enhance flavor
How to Make shells and cheese
This delightful shells and cheese recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. You’ll have a creamy, cheesy dish ready in just 25 minutes!
Step 1:
Cook shells in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
Step 2:
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Step 3:
Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and simmer until thickened.
Step 4:
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5:
Season with salt and pepper, then add cooked shells and stir to coat.
Step 6:
Serve hot and enjoy your creamy shells and cheese!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and creamy! |
Pro Tips for Making shells and cheese
- Opt for a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor.
- Cook shells al dente for the perfect texture.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, cozy touch.
- Stir in cooked veggies for added nutrition and color.
- Top with breadcrumbs and broil for a crispy finish.
How to Serve this shells and cheese
- Top with crispy breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color.
- Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.
- Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor.
- Drizzle with a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Enjoy with garlic bread for a comforting combo.
- Serve in individual ramekins for a fun presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your shells and cheese later is easy!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the dish to cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Cool the shells and cheese before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk.
- Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is shells and cheese?
Shells and cheese is a comforting dish made with pasta shells coated in a creamy cheese sauce. It’s a popular variation of macaroni and cheese, often loved for its rich flavor and delightful texture. The shells hold the cheese sauce beautifully, making every bite a cheesy delight!
2. How do you make shells and cheese from scratch?
To make shells and cheese from scratch, start by cooking the pasta shells according to package instructions. In a separate pot, melt butter, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened, and then mix in your choice of cheeses until melted and smooth. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked shells, and enjoy your homemade comfort food!
3. Can shells and cheese be prepared ahead of time and frozen?
Yes, you can prepare shells and cheese ahead of time and freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
4. What are some popular variations or add‐ins for shells and cheese?
There are many delicious variations and add-ins for shells and cheese! You can mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition, or stir in proteins like shredded chicken or cooked ground beef for a heartier meal. For a flavor twist, try adding spices like paprika or garlic powder, or even a splash of hot sauce for some heat!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new go-to recipe for shells and cheese! This creamy delight is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. So grab your favorite bowl, dig in, and savor every cheesy bite. Remember, cooking should be fun and rewarding, so enjoy the process and share it with loved ones!