When I think about a pasta recipe kids will love, my mind instantly drifts back to the cozy kitchen where Mama Lou used to work her magic. There was something truly special about sitting around the table with my sister Ouma, twirling noodles on our forks, and sharing stories between bites. Pasta isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug from the heart, a tradition carried through generations. Today, I want to share a pasta recipe kids will adore—one that’s simple enough for little hands to help with and comforting enough to bring the whole family together, just like those afternoons with Mama Lou and Ouma.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This pasta recipe kids
This pasta recipe kids will love is a perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia. What makes it truly special isn’t just the ingredients, but the memories it creates around the table. I remember how Mama Lou would hum softly while stirring the sauce, occasionally sneaking a taste before calling us to dinner. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare, with no complicated steps, making it perfect for busy parents and little chefs alike. Plus, the mild, creamy sauce paired with tender pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for even the pickiest eaters.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how it brings out the joy of cooking together. I often recall Ouma’s eager little hands helping me sprinkle cheese or stir the sauce. It’s about connection, about passing down traditions in the most delicious way possible. That’s why this pasta recipe kids will love is more than food—it’s family, love, and memories on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This pasta recipe kids
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shells (substitute with whole wheat pasta for added fiber)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or use 2% milk for a lighter version)
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works too, but milder cheese tends to please young palates)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of mustard powder for subtle depth
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g (higher if using whole wheat pasta)
- Sugar: 6g (mostly from milk)
- Sodium: 450mg (can be reduced by using low-sodium cheeses or adjusting salt)
Easy and Fun Pasta Recipe Kids Will Love
Learn how to make delicious pasta recipe kids. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shells (substitute with whole wheat pasta for added fiber)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or use 2% milk for a lighter version)
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works too, but milder cheese tends to please young palates)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of mustard powder for subtle depth
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside. I always let a little pasta water linger in the pot—it helps the sauce cling to the noodles better, a trick Mama Lou taught me.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbly, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns a soft golden color and smells nutty—this is your roux, the base of a creamy sauce.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. You’ll see it coat the back of a spoon—that’s when you know it’s ready.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it. I always taste at this stage—it’s like a little moment of magic, reminding me of Mama Lou’s kitchen.
- Add the cooked pasta back into the pot with the sauce. Stir gently until all the noodles are coated in that luscious, cheesy goodness. This step is when Ouma and I used to sneak a bite, hoping Mama Lou wouldn’t catch us!
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired. The colors brighten the dish and add a fresh aroma that makes dinner feel even more special.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your pasta recipe kids
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside. I always let a little pasta water linger in the pot—it helps the sauce cling to the noodles better, a trick Mama Lou taught me.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbly, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns a soft golden color and smells nutty—this is your roux, the base of a creamy sauce.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. You’ll see it coat the back of a spoon—that’s when you know it’s ready.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it. I always taste at this stage—it’s like a little moment of magic, reminding me of Mama Lou’s kitchen.
- Add the cooked pasta back into the pot with the sauce. Stir gently until all the noodles are coated in that luscious, cheesy goodness. This step is when Ouma and I used to sneak a bite, hoping Mama Lou wouldn’t catch us!
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired. The colors brighten the dish and add a fresh aroma that makes dinner feel even more special.
Tips for Making the Best pasta recipe kids
From my years of cooking with Mama Lou and experimenting alongside Ouma, I’ve learned a few secrets to making this pasta recipe kids will love every time:
- Choose the right pasta shape: Smaller shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or even mini rotini work best for little hands and mouths.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better under the creamy sauce and has a nicer texture that kids tend to enjoy.
- Make the roux carefully: Cooking the flour and butter mixture just right is key. It should be golden but not burnt. This small step ensures a velvety sauce.
- Use mild cheeses: Kids often prefer mild flavors, but don’t hesitate to adjust cheeses according to your family’s taste. Sometimes, a little extra Parmesan adds a nice tang.
- Get the kids involved: Let them sprinkle cheese or stir the sauce under supervision. It turns cooking into a fun activity and builds their confidence in the kitchen.
- Season gently: Keep spices mild and taste frequently. Remember, this is a pasta recipe kids will love, so it’s best to keep flavors approachable but delicious.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta recipe kids will adore is wonderfully versatile. When I served it during one of our family dinners, Mama Lou insisted on pairing it with her famous garlic bread—a crunchy, buttery side that made the meal feel even more like a celebration. Ouma always loved adding a simple side of steamed broccoli or peas, which made the plate colorful and nutritious. Learn more: Cheesy Pasta Perfection: Your New Go-To Recipe
Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots
- Fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
- Grilled chicken strips or meatballs for added protein
- A fruit salad or sliced apples for a refreshing finish
Storage and Reheating Tips
Like many family recipes, this pasta tastes best fresh, but leftovers are often inevitable. I remember how Mama Lou would store her pasta in airtight containers, making sure it cooled completely before popping it into the fridge. Here’s how to keep your pasta recipe kids enjoy just as delicious the next day:
- Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce as needed.
- Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain creaminess.
- Avoid freezing this pasta, as the creamy sauce can separate and become grainy when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for pasta recipe kids?
The main ingredients for pasta recipe kids include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make pasta recipe kids?
The total time to make pasta recipe kids includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make pasta recipe kids ahead of time?
Yes, pasta recipe kids can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with pasta recipe kids?
pasta recipe kids pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is pasta recipe kids suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, pasta recipe kids may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this pasta recipe kids will love feels like passing down a piece of my family’s soul to you. It’s a dish that carries the spirit of Mama Lou’s warmth and Ouma’s laughter around the kitchen table. Cooking together, tasting, and making memories—that’s what food is truly about.
“Food is love made visible.”
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this pasta recipe is a reminder that the simplest meals often bring the greatest joy. I hope it fills your home with the same comfort and connection it always has in mine.
