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5 from 2 votes

Broccoli and White Cheddar Shells Recipe

Sometimes you need a quick and filling meal in under 30 minutes! Not only is this dish easy to make, but the whole family will love it!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Course: Main Dishes, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 8
Calories: 421kcal
Author: Andrea

Ingredients

  • 1 lb mini shells or gnocchetti *
  • 1 head broccoli steamed and chopped
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk warmed
  • 1/2 tsp salt (more to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp pepper (more to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp paprika heaping
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dry mustard
  • 1 cup white cheddar cheese grated
  • 1 cup sharp or extra sharp white cheddar cheese grated

Instructions

  • Fill a dutch oven or heavy bottom stock pot with water, bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions. Drain, rinse with cold water and transfer to a large bowl.
  • In a glass measuring cup heat the 2 c. of milk for 45 seconds on HIGH in the microwave, set aside.
  • Return the pot to low heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour. Bring the heat up to medium and cook for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture begins to bubble (but not brown). Add 1½ c. of the warm whole milk and whisk to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, it will thicken substantially.
  • Add the salt and spices, continue whisking. Turn the heat down to low and add the grated cheeses, stirring constantly until it has melted into the sauce. Stir in the remaining ½ c. of milk.
  • Add the cooked pasta and steamed broccoli, stir to coat. Serve immediately.

Notes

-Feel free to use any type of pasta you have on hand, we used gnocchetti.

Nutrition

Calories: 421kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 43mg | Sodium: 376mg | Potassium: 484mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 987IU | Vitamin C: 68mg | Calcium: 323mg | Iron: 2mg