There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta dish fresh from the oven, and this shotgun shells recipe fits the bill perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, these oven baked shotgun shells offer a hearty, satisfying meal with all the flavors you love.
You’ll find this recipe straightforward and fun to make, with familiar ingredients and a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to every shell. Let’s dive into why this shotgun shells recipe is about to become your go-to comfort food!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with simple pantry staples and minimal fuss.
- Oven baked for a golden, bubbly cheesy crust that’s irresistible.
- Perfectly portioned for family dinners or meal prep for up to 6 servings.
- Flexible – you can customize it with your favorite cheeses or add-ins.
- Comforting flavors that satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for a creamy, cheesy baked pasta that’s bursting with flavor. The recipe uses classic components you probably have on hand.
- 1 pound shotgun shell pasta (or medium shell pasta)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
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Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
How to Make Shotgun Shells Recipe (Oven Baked)
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the shotgun shell pasta in salted boiling water for 8-9 minutes until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Lower the heat and whisk in the cream cheese, sour cream, and whole milk until smooth and creamy. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using. Cook until the cheese is melted and sauce is thickened.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overcook the pasta initially; it will finish cooking in the oven and stay perfectly tender.
- Use sharp cheddar for a bold, tangy flavor, or mix cheeses like mozzarella for extra meltiness.
- Let the baked dish rest before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and set slightly.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top before baking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers; they keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheat refrigerated portions in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual servings until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other pasta shapes instead of shotgun shells?
Yes, medium-sized pasta shapes like medium shells, rigatoni, or penne work well as they hold the cheese sauce nicely. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can substitute gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Just be sure to check the cooking time on the package since gluten-free pasta varies in texture and cook time.
Can I add vegetables or protein to this recipe?
Absolutely! Cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli, as well as proteins like cooked chicken or bacon, can be stirred into the cheese sauce before baking for extra flavor and nutrition.
What makes this shotgun shells recipe different from traditional mac and cheese?
This recipe uses the unique shotgun shell pasta shape, which holds sauce inside each shell for a different texture experience. The addition of sour cream and cream cheese adds extra creaminess and tang.