If you're a fan of mac and cheese, you'll love 1 cup prepared (71 g) White Cheddar Shells & Cheese. And at 280 calories per serving, it's a tasty indulgence that won't break the calorie bank. Made with creamy white cheddar cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta shells, this dish is the perfect comfort food for a chilly day.

In addition to its great taste, White Cheddar Shells & Cheese is also a good source of macronutrients. A single serving provides 10 grams of protein and 38 grams of carbohydrates. It also delivers 8 grams of fat, which includes 4.5 grams of saturated fat.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of White Cheddar Shells & Cheese, as well as some tips for serving and storing this delicious dish.

Calories and Macronutrients

As mentioned, one cup of White Cheddar Shells & Cheese provides 280 calories. It also contains 10 grams of protein, 38 grams of carbohydrates, and 8 grams of fat. The dish is also a good source of calcium and iron, delivering 10% and 15% of the recommended daily intake, respectively. Of the 8 grams of fat in White Cheddar Shells & Cheese, 4.5 grams are saturated fat. While saturated fats have been linked to increased risk of heart disease, they can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you're counting calories or tracking macros, be sure to adjust your serving size accordingly to fit your nutritional goals.

Ingredients List

The ingredients in White Cheddar Shells & Cheese include enriched macaroni product (wheat flour, niacin, ferrous sulfate, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), cheese sauce mix (whey, milk, corn syrup solids, salt, sodium phosphate, cheddar cheese, cream, sugar, lactic acid), and modified food starch. If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to check the ingredients list for potential allergens. Additionally, some people may choose to avoid modified food starch due to its potential to trigger digestive issues.

Preparation Instructions

Preparing White Cheddar Shells & Cheese is quick and easy. Begin by bringing 6 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce according to package instructions. Once the pasta is done, drain it and return it to the saucepan. Add the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated. If desired, you can add additional ingredients such as cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or green onions to enhance the flavor of the dish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Size and Portion Control

As mentioned, one cup of White Cheddar Shells & Cheese provides 280 calories. While it's tempting to indulge in a larger portion, it's important to practice portion control to avoid overindulging. Consider serving White Cheddar Shells & Cheese as a side dish rather than a main course. Pair it with a salad or cooked vegetables to create a balanced meal. Alternatively, you can divide the dish into smaller portions for meal prep or leftovers. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying indulgent foods like White Cheddar Shells & Cheese.

Health Benefits and Risks

While White Cheddar Shells & Cheese is a tasty treat, it's important to consider its nutritional profile when incorporating it into your diet. The dish provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates, but also contains a significant amount of saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat has been linked to increased risk of heart disease, so it's important to enjoy dishes like White Cheddar Shells & Cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Storage and Shelf Life

Leftovers of White Cheddar Shells & Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, be sure to add a splash of milk or cream to help the cheese sauce regain its creamy texture. If you're looking to extend the shelf life of this dish, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply transfer the cooled mixture to a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Flavor and Texture Profile

White Cheddar Shells & Cheese is a creamy, indulgent dish that can satisfy even the strongest mac and cheese cravings. The pasta shells are perfectly cooked and coated in a rich, white cheddar cheese sauce that is both tangy and savory. If you're looking to add a little twist to this classic dish, try experimenting with different add-ins such as diced tomatoes, cooked bacon, or green onions.

Meal Pairing and Recipe Ideas

White Cheddar Shells & Cheese pairs well with a variety of dishes. You can serve it as a side dish alongside roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal. Alternatively, you can use it as a base for a hearty casserole or pasta bake. If you're looking for recipe inspiration, try using White Cheddar Shells & Cheese as a filling for stuffed peppers or mixing it with diced chicken and vegetables for a quick and easy skillet meal.

Nutrition Label and Claims

The nutrition label for White Cheddar Shells & Cheese can be found on the package. It provides a breakdown of the macronutrients and calorie content per serving. While the dish doesn't make any specific health claims, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

Nutrition Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to similar mac and cheese dishes, White Cheddar Shells & Cheese is relatively low in calories. For example, a 1 cup serving of Kraft Macaroni & Cheese provides 370 calories, while a 1 cup serving of Annie's White Cheddar Mac & Cheese provides 280 calories. However, White Cheddar Shells & Cheese does contain more saturated fat than some other brands. For example, a 1 cup serving of Annie's White Cheddar Mac & Cheese contains only 3 grams of saturated fat, compared to 4.5 grams in White Cheddar Shells & Cheese. When choosing a mac and cheese dish, be sure to consider both the calorie and saturated fat content to make the best choice for your dietary needs.