Low Fat Classic Shells and Cheese

Indulge in comfort food without the guilt with this Low Fat Classic Shells and Cheese recipe! Featuring tender al dente medium pasta shells coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with low-fat sharp cheddar, light cream cheese, and a touch of Dijon mustard, this dish is the perfect lighter twist on a family favorite. Thickened with cornstarch and low-fat milk, this recipe skips the heavy cream but keeps all the velvety texture you crave. A dash of paprika and black pepper adds just the right amount of warmth and depth of flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for four servings, this healthier take on macaroni and cheese is ideal for busy weeknights or as a side dish for special occasions. Serve it straight from the stovetop and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika for an irresistible finish!

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells
• 2 cups low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1.5 cups low-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons light cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.

Step 2

Add 8 ounces of medium pasta shells to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.

Step 3

While the pasta is cooking, in a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 cups of low-fat milk and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until well combined.

Step 4

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the milk mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent any lumps or sticking.

Step 5

Once the milk mixture has thickened slightly (about 3-5 minutes), reduce the heat to low and add 1.5 cups of shredded low-fat sharp cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons of light cream cheese.

Step 6

Stir continuously until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 7

Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 0.5 teaspoon of salt, 0.25 teaspoon of ground black pepper, and 0.5 teaspoon of paprika to the cheese sauce, stirring to incorporate.

Step 8

Drain the cooked pasta shells and return them to the pot.

Step 9

Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta shells, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 10

Continue to cook over low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shells are well-coated and the sauce is heated through.

Step 11

Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(930.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1656.5

Total Fat 34.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 18.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 114.6mg	0%
Sodium 2858.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 211.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.9g	0%
Total Sugars 31.8g
Protein 100.7g	0%

Vitamin D 241.2IU	0%
Calcium 1895.2mg	0%
Iron 4.1mg	0%
Potassium 500.2mg	0%

*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: 19.7%

Protein: 25.9%

Carbs: 54.4%