Description
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of homemade shells and cheese, a nostalgic comfort dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces pasta shells
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (sharp cheddar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta shells and cook them until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Make the Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about one minute.
- Whisk in the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
- Stir in the Cheese: Remove from heat and fold in the shredded cheese until completely melted.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine with Pasta: Gently fold the cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce.
- Optional Baking Step: Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve Warm: Ladle into bowls and enjoy.
Notes
For added flavor, experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables and proteins. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, comfort food, shells and cheese, creamy pasta