Cheesy Velveeta Shells: Creamy Comfort Mac & Cheese (Print Version)
Cheesy Velveeta Shells delivers creamy comfort food in minutes. This easy, nostalgic recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying side dish.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 5 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Shell Foundation
01 -
8 ounces medium shell pasta
→ Velvety Cheese Sauce Core
02 -
16 ounces Velveeta, cut into 1-inch cubes
03 -
2 cups whole milk
04 -
1/4 cup unsalted butter
05 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
06 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
07 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 -
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
→ Flavorful Enhancements
09 -
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot)
10 -
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
11 -
Kosher salt to taste
12 -
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 8 ounces medium shell pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This is the foundation for your Cheesy Velveeta and Shells: Creamy Comfort Food.
02 -
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
03 -
Gradually whisk in 2 cups whole milk until smooth. Continue whisking and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly. This forms the base for the rich sauce in your Cheesy Velveeta and Shells: Creamy Comfort Food.
04 -
Reduce heat to low. Add 16 ounces Velveeta, cut into 1-inch cubes, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder. Stir constantly until the Velveeta is completely melted and smooth.
05 -
Add the drained medium shell pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated. This brings together the core components of your Cheesy Velveeta and Shells: Creamy Comfort Food.
06 -
Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce. Continue stirring until the cheddar is melted and fully incorporated, adding another layer of cheesy goodness.
07 -
Taste and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Enjoy your ultimate Cheesy Velveeta and Shells: Creamy Comfort Food!
# Notes:
01 -
For a slightly sharper flavor, you can substitute a portion of the Velveeta with an equal amount of cream cheese.
02 -
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some roasted broccoli to balance the richness.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
04 -
Don't be afraid to adjust the hot sauce to your preference; a little extra can add a nice kick without overpowering the cheese.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Medium saucepan
03 -
Whisk
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 837 kcal
Total Fat: 50 g
Total Carbohydrate: 64 g
Protein: 34 g