Patrick Oconnell
Velveeta Shells and Cheese is a convenient and indulgent snack, side dish, or entree. It is a creamy, rich, and savory pasta dish that can be made on a stovetop or in a microwave. The stovetop preparation involves boiling the shell pasta, draining it, and then combining it with the cheese sauce. The microwave preparation involves filling the cup with water and microwaving it for 3.5 minutes. While the exact quantity of pasta in each cup is not explicitly stated, a 12 oz box of Velveeta Shells & Cheese contains approximately 3 servings. Additionally, a recipe for homemade mac and cheese with Velveeta suggests using 2 cups of cooked elbow macaroni with 8 oz of Velveeta.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Weight | 12 oz |
| Servings | 3 |
| Preparation | Boil shell pasta, drain, combine with cheese sauce |
| Cooking time | 3.5 minutes in the microwave |
| Add-ins | Vegetables, meat, toppings, seasonings, milk |
| Nutritional information | No added sugars, vegetarian, no high fructose corn syrup, pescatarian |
| Allergens | Wheat, milk |
| Cheese amount | 4 oz per cup of pasta |
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$8.92 $9.99
What You'll Learn
Velveeta Shells and Cheese microwavable cup
Velveeta Shells and Cheese is a convenient microwavable meal that can be prepared in just a few simple steps. Each cup contains shell pasta and a packet of cheese sauce. To prepare, you pour water into the cup up to the fill line and microwave it for 3.5 minutes.
The product is marketed as a "snack, side dish, or entree" that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere. It is described as having a "supremely creamy texture and rich, savory taste" with "tender pasta shells that grip the drip like no other." The shell shape of the pasta ensures that each bite is generously coated in the iconic, velvety cheese sauce.
While the product is designed for microwave preparation, some consumers have experimented with alternative cooking methods, such as using boiling water from a Jetboil. However, Kraft, the manufacturer of Velveeta, advises that the microwave directions are the only recommended method for cooking the product.
The microwavable cup is a popular choice for those seeking a quick and easy meal, whether at home or on the go. Each cup typically serves one person, and the product is often praised for its convenience and indulgent taste.
In addition to the microwavable cups, Velveeta Shells and Cheese is also available in larger boxes, which make approximately three servings each. The box contains shell pasta and a packet of cheese sauce, requiring preparation on a stovetop. This option may be preferable for those seeking a larger portion or a more traditional cooking experience.
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Preparing Velveeta Shells and Cheese
Using the Boxed Velveeta Shells and Cheese
To prepare the boxed version, boil the shell pasta on your stovetop according to the instructions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain the water and return the pasta to the pan. Do not rinse the pasta. Next, add the cheese sauce and mix well. The boxed version makes about three servings. You can also add vegetables, meat, toppings, or seasonings to customise your meal.
Using the Microwavable Cup
For the microwavable cup, pour water into the cup up to the fill line and microwave for 3.5 minutes.
Homemade Velveeta Mac and Cheese
Alternatively, you can make your own Velveeta mac and cheese from scratch. To do this, cook the pasta according to the directions on the packaging, drain, and then cut Velveeta into cubes. Add the cheese to the pasta, along with milk, and stir over low to medium heat until the cheese has melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Adding ingredients to Velveeta Shells and Cheese
Velveeta Shells and Cheese is a convenient and tasty snack, side dish, or entrée. The product comes with shell pasta and a packet of cheese sauce, which can be combined to make a delicious, indulgent meal. While the product is tasty on its own, you can also experiment with adding extra ingredients to elevate your dish.
How to Prepare the Basic Dish
First, boil the shell pasta on a stovetop according to the instructions on the packet. Drain the pasta, but do not rinse it. Return the pasta to the pan, and add the cheese sauce. Mix well, and your basic Velveeta Shells and Cheese is ready to be enjoyed!
Adding Extra Ingredients
The basic recipe for Velveeta Shells and Cheese can be customised by adding extra vegetables, meat, toppings, or seasonings. Here are some ideas for extra ingredients that you can add to your Velveeta Shells and Cheese:
- Evaporated milk instead of plain milk for a creamier texture
- Freeze-dried corn, peas, and chicken for extra flavour and protein
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Your favourite cheese, grated, to make the dish even cheesier
When adding extra ingredients, you may need to adjust the cooking method slightly. For example, if you are adding chicken, you will need to ensure it is cooked thoroughly before combining it with the pasta and cheese sauce. Similarly, if you are adding extra vegetables, you may need to cook them separately and ensure they are tender before mixing them into the pasta.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and find your favourite combinations. Enjoy your customised Velveeta Shells and Cheese!
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Substituting Velveeta with regular cheese
The Velveeta Shells and Cheese microwavable cup is a convenient option for those seeking a quick, indulgent snack or meal. It involves pouring water into the cup up to the fill line and microwaving it for 3.5 minutes. While this product is popular, some may prefer to prepare their own pasta and cheese sauce from scratch.
Velveeta is a processed cheese product known for its smooth, creamy texture and mild, tangy flavour. It is a versatile ingredient, often used in recipes that require melted cheese, such as dips, sauces, pasta dishes, and casseroles. However, some may prefer to substitute Velveeta with regular cheese for various reasons, such as health or availability.
When substituting Velveeta with regular cheese, it is important to consider the desired texture and flavour profile of the final dish. Velveeta is known for its melting properties, so choosing a substitute cheese that melts well is crucial. Here are some suitable options:
- Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a popular and versatile substitute for Velveeta. It comes in various forms, such as sharp, mild, shredded, or extra sharp, and melts well. It has a similar orange or yellow colour to Velveeta and is widely enjoyed, making it a safe choice for most palates.
- Monterey Jack: Also known simply as Jack, this cheese is made with cow's milk and has a mild taste. It is versatile and commonly used in Mexican dishes like quesadillas. Jack cheese melts well, making it an excellent substitute for Velveeta in pasta or sauce recipes.
- Pepper Jack: A variation of Jack cheese, Pepper Jack includes chilli peppers and herbs for a spicier flavour. It melts well and is a good option for those who prefer a mild cheese with a hint of spice.
- Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is known for its mild flavour and lack of a pungent smell, making it suitable for recipes that do not have strong flavours. It is a universally appealing cheese, much like Velveeta.
- Cream Cheese: Cream cheese has a different flavour profile from Velveeta, but it can be combined with other cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, havarti, or Colby, to achieve a similar taste. It is a lower-sodium alternative and may require additional seasonings to enhance its flavour.
- Cheez Wiz: Cheez Wiz is an American processed cheese spread, also produced by Kraft. It melts in the same quantity as Velveeta, making it a convenient and tasty substitute, especially for dips or Rotel dip.
When substituting Velveeta with regular cheese, it is essential to use melting-type cheeses or those that blend well to achieve the desired creamy texture. Additionally, consider adding spices or vegetables to enhance the flavour and create a unique, tasty dish.
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Reheating Velveeta Shells and Cheese
Velveeta Shells and Cheese is a convenient and indulgent snack, side dish, or entrée. While it is best eaten fresh, it can be reheated.
Reheating Instructions
If you're reheating Velveeta Shells and Cheese, it's best to avoid using the microwave, as this can affect the texture of the dish, particularly if it contains breadcrumbs.
To retain the creamy texture of the pasta and the crunch of the breadcrumbs, reheat leftovers in the oven. Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, adding a thin layer of cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 5–10 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the breadcrumbs are toasted.
Alternatively, if you're reheating a single serving of the microwavable cup variety of Velveeta Shells and Cheese, follow the instructions provided: fill the cup with water to the indicated line and microwave for 3.5 minutes.
Customization
Velveeta Shells and Cheese can be customized with added vegetables, meat, toppings, or seasonings. For example, you could add freeze-dried corn, peas, or chicken for extra flavor and protein.
Stovetop Preparation
If you're preparing Velveeta Shells and Cheese on the stovetop, follow these steps:
- Boil the shell pasta according to the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta without rinsing and return it to the pan.
- Add the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Serve and enjoy!
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Frequently asked questions
One 12 oz box of Velveeta Shells and Cheese contains approximately 3 servings. One user has suggested that a cup of pasta is the right amount to use with a 4 oz cheese packet.
Boil the shell pasta on a stovetop, drain, and combine with the cheese sauce.
Yes, you can make it in the microwave by pouring water into the cup up to the fill line and microwaving for 3.5 minutes.
Yes, you can add ingredients such as vegetables, meat, toppings, or seasonings.
I couldn't find specific calorie information for a 12 oz box of Velveeta Shells and Cheese. However, one source mentions that 3 cups of dried pasta, which makes about 6 cups when cooked, has a total of 1320 calories.
