Baked Shells and Cheese Casserole with Homemade Cheddar Sauce
A comforting baked pasta casserole featuring tender shell pasta enveloped in a rich, homemade cheddar cheese sauce. The creamy base is built from a classic roux-thickened milk sauce, creating a smooth texture that clings beautifully to each pasta shell. Baked until bubbly and golden, this family-friendly dish offers the nostalgic appeal of mac and cheese with the heartiness of a casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potluck gatherings, or anytime you crave satisfying comfort food that feeds a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
- 2
Cook pasta shells according to package instructions, drain and set aside
- 3
Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat
- 4
Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes
- 5
Gradually whisk in milk and cook until mixture thickens
- 6
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth
- 7
Season with salt and black pepper
- 8
Combine cooked pasta shells with cheese sauce and mix well
- 9
Transfer mixture to baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top
- 10
Let cool for a few minutes before serving
Tips
Save some pasta cooking water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick when combining with shells.
For extra flavor depth, add a pinch of garlic powder or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
Top with breadcrumbs or extra cheese before baking for added texture contrast.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered up to 3 days. Reheat in oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Assemble completely but do not bake. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 day, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes if needed.
Serve hot as main dish with side salad or steamed vegetables.
Common Mistakes
Do not overcook pasta initially to avoid mushy texture after baking.
Whisk milk gradually to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
different shape
FAQ
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze baked casserole up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat covered in 350°F oven until heated through.
What if my cheese sauce is lumpy?
Strain the sauce through fine mesh sieve or blend briefly with immersion blender to smooth out lumps before combining with pasta.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave or entire dish in oven until heated through.