Shells and Cheese (with Bacon and Peas)
Try this Shells and Cheese (with Bacon and Peas) recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Shells and Cheese (with Bacon and Peas) recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups 2% milk
- 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (more to taste!)
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt more to taste
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (more to taste)
- 8 slices thin bacon fried crisp and chopped
- 12 ounces, weight small or medium pasta shells
- 8 ounces, weight velveeta cut into cubes (i actually used about 10-12 ounces!)
- Carbohydrate 0.138132500003651 g
- Cholesterol 30.503125013081 mg
- Fat 11.5140012549349 g
- Fiber 0.053 g
- Protein 0.142493750051716 g
- Saturated Fat 7.28979500312533 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (464g)
- Sodium 663.178000035045 mg
- Sugar 0.0851325000036505 g
- Trans Fat 0.805846250345459 g
- Calories 102 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook pasta according to package instructions for al dente (do not overcook).
- Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot heat the milk and butter over medium-low heat.
- Turn off the heat, then add Velveeta and stir until completely smooth and melted.
- Stir in the grated cheddar, then add seasoned salt and pepper.
- Stir until combined, then taste it and add more seasonings if needed.
- Add cooked pasta and stir until coated. It will be soupy and saucy, but will thicken slowly.
- If desired, stir in frozen peas (they will thaw) and bacon.
- Serve immediately.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Shells and Cheese with a Twist
As a busy working mom, time is a luxury I rarely have. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the constant juggling act of keeping everyone fed and happy. So, when it comes to dinner, I need something quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. That's where my trusty Shells and Cheese recipe comes in – a classic comfort food with a little something extra to elevate it from ordinary to extraordinary.
This isn't your average boxed mac and cheese. Oh no, this is a creamy, cheesy, bacon-infused dream. The addition of sweet peas adds a delightful textural contrast and a touch of freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce. It's the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication, a dish that satisfies my family's cravings without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's a blank canvas, really. I often adapt it to what I have on hand. Sometimes I add a pinch of garlic powder for extra zing, other times I swap the sharp cheddar for a milder variety, depending on my mood and what's in the fridge. Feel free to experiment! Add some chopped ham, sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of your favorite herbs – the possibilities are endless.
The key to truly amazing shells and cheese is the cheese sauce. I've tried countless variations, but nothing beats the creamy perfection of a combination of Velveeta and sharp cheddar. The Velveeta provides that signature smooth, melty base, while the sharp cheddar adds a tangy kick that keeps things interesting. Don't skimp on the cheese! It's the heart and soul of this dish. And don't forget the bacon – crispy, salty bacon is the perfect complement to the richness of the cheese sauce.
For those evenings when I'm feeling extra ambitious, I'll even make a big batch and freeze portions for those hectic weeks ahead. It reheats beautifully, making it a lifesaver on those days when even the thought of cooking feels overwhelming. This recipe is my secret weapon for tackling busy weeknights, and I'm so excited to share it with you.
Beyond the convenience, this shells and cheese recipe holds a special place in my heart. It's a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings spent around the kitchen table. It's more than just a meal; it's a connection to simpler times, a comforting reminder of the things that truly matter. I hope it brings you the same joy and satisfaction it brings to my family.
So, next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal, give my Shells and Cheese with Bacon and Peas a try. You won't be disappointed! And remember, feel free to personalize it to your liking – that’s part of the fun!
Pro-tip: For an extra decadent touch, top your shells and cheese with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
