Nutrition Facts for My kids shells and cheese

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.

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100
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Image of My Kids Shells and Cheese
Prep Time:10 mins
Cook Time:20 mins
Total Time:30 mins
Servings: 4

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)

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

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.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

Add the cooked shells to the cheese sauce and gently stir to coat all the pasta evenly.

Step 6

Serve warm with a sprinkle of paprika on top, if desired, for a pop of color.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size 1448.4 grams (1448.4g)
Amount per serving % Daily Value*
Calories 3246
Total Fat 159.40g 204%
Saturated Fat 97.80g 489%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.80g
Cholesterol 507mg 169%
Sodium 5680mg 247%
Total Carbohydrate 308.20g 112%
Dietary Fiber 12.20g 44%
Total Sugars 47.50g
Protein 157.00g 314%
Vitamin D 377IU 1884%
Calcium 3467mg 267%
Iron 8mg 42%
Potassium 1808mg 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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.5%
Protein: 19.1%
Carbs: 37.4%