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Easy Creamy Pasta Kids Love

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A quick, creamy pasta recipe perfect for busy families and picky eaters, ready in under 20 minutes using simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) elbow macaroni or small shells
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 cups (475 ml) milk, whole or 2% (or dairy-free milk alternative)
  • 1 ½ cups (150 grams) shredded mild cheddar or cheddar-mozzarella blend
  • ¼ cup (60 grams) sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Optional add-ins: handful of frozen peas or finely chopped cooked chicken

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet or medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color and smells nutty.
  3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups (475 ml) of milk, adding a little at a time to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes, coating the back of a spoon smoothly.
  4. Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups (150 grams) shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add ¼ cup (60 grams) sour cream or Greek yogurt, ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until creamy and smooth.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and gently fold to coat evenly. Stir in any optional add-ins like peas or chicken if using. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; it will finish cooking when mixed with the sauce. Gradually add milk to avoid lumps. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen. Keep sauce at medium or low heat after adding cheese to prevent breaking. Can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pasta, kid-friendly pasta, quick dinner, family meal, easy pasta recipe, creamy sauce, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://sizzlesprout.com/easy-creamy-pasta-kids-love-recipe-5-steps-for-family-friendly-meals/