My Kids Shells and Cheese
Looking for the ultimate kid-approved comfort food? "My Kids Shells and Cheese" is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and family-friendly appeal. Featuring tender medium pasta shells enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce made from rich cheddar and Parmesan, this homemade twist on a classic is quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying. A simple roux made with butter and flour creates the base for the sauce, while whole milk ensures a luxurious texture. Seasoned with just the right amount of salt, pepper, and optional paprika for a finishing touch, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or lunchbox favorite. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or indulging your own cravings for nostalgia, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit around the table.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Medium pasta shells
- 3 tablespoons Butter
- 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 3 cups Whole milk
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon Paprika (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook the roux for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until bubbly and slightly golden.
Slowly pour in the milk while continually whisking to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken, about 2–3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Add the cooked shells to the cheese sauce and gently stir to coat all the pasta evenly.
Serve warm with a sprinkle of paprika on top, if desired, for a pop of color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3246 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 159.4 g | 204% | |
| Saturated Fat | 97.8 g | 489% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 506 mg | 169% | |
| Sodium | 5680 mg | 247% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 308.2 g | 112% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.2 g | 44% | |
| Total Sugars | 47.5 g | ||
| Protein | 157.0 g | 314% | |
| Vitamin D | 9.4 mcg | 47% | |
| Calcium | 3466 mg | 267% | |
| Iron | 7.6 mg | 42% | |
| Potassium | 1808 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
