How to Choose the Right Mac and Cheese Shape for Your Next Meal

Quick Answer

For a classic, nostalgic mac and cheese, choose elbow shapes like Cheddar Elbows. If you want a heartier bite that holds more sauce, go with shells like Deluxe Elbows or Brown Rice Cheddar Shells. Consider your protein goals and gluten needs to narrow down the best option.

Mac and cheese is comfort food, but the shape of the pasta can change the whole experience. Elbows are the classic, but shells have a larger surface area that traps more cheese sauce. Your choice also affects texture, how well it holds up in leftovers, and even how much protein you get per serving.

This guide breaks down the key differences between popular mac and cheese shapes—like elbows and shells—and helps you match them to your meal, whether you're cooking for kids, meal-prepping, or looking for a gluten-free option.

Elbows: The Classic Choice

Elbow macaroni is the traditional shape most people picture when they think of mac and cheese. Its small, curved tubes are perfect for scooping up a moderate amount of sauce, giving you a balanced bite of pasta and cheese in every spoonful. Elbows are also a familiar shape for kids, making them a safe pick for family dinners.

If you're looking for a gluten-free version, brown rice elbows offer the same classic shape and texture without the gluten. They cook up al dente and hold their shape well, so you won't end up with mushy pasta. For a protein boost, consider a blend like wheat and chickpea elbows, which combine the familiar taste of wheat pasta with extra protein.

• Elbows are best for classic recipes and picky eaters.
• They work well in baked mac and cheese because they hold their shape.
• Gluten-free elbow options are available for those with sensitivities.

Shells: More Sauce, More Flavor

Shell-shaped pasta has a larger surface area and a concave pocket that captures more cheese sauce in every bite. This makes shells ideal for creamy, rich mac and cheese recipes where you want the sauce to be the star. Shells also have a slightly chewier texture, giving you a more substantial mouthfeel.

For a gluten-free option, brown rice shells deliver the same sauce-holding benefits without gluten. If you want to maximize protein, look for shell shapes made with a wheat and chickpea blend, which offer a boost of protein while keeping the classic taste and texture you expect.

• Shells are great for extra creamy sauces and baked dishes.
• They hold up well in leftovers and reheat nicely.
• Choose shells when you want a more filling, hearty meal.

Deluxe Shapes: When You Want Something Special

Some mac and cheese products use a 'deluxe' shape that is a cross between elbows and shells. These shapes are designed to maximize both sauce capture and a satisfying bite. They often have ridges or curves that help the cheese cling better, making them a favorite for those who want a premium mac and cheese experience.

Deluxe shapes are also a good choice if you're serving a crowd or want to elevate a simple weeknight meal. They feel more indulgent and can make the dish feel more special without extra effort.

• Deluxe shapes offer the best of both worlds: sauce grip and texture.
• They're ideal for special occasions or when you want a more upscale feel.
• Look for protein-enriched versions for a more filling meal.

Decision Rules for Choosing Your Mac and Cheese Shape

• Classic comfort: Choose elbow shapes like Cheddar Elbows for a traditional, nostalgic mac and cheese experience that everyone recognizes. Best for kids and classic recipes.
• Extra sauce and richness: Opt for shell shapes like Brown Rice Cheddar Shells to capture more cheese sauce in every bite and enjoy a heartier texture. Best for creamy, indulgent dishes.
• Protein boost: Select a protein-enriched option like Deluxe Elbows (chickpea-based) to add more protein and fiber to your meal without sacrificing taste. Best for active lifestyles or filling meals.
• Gluten-free needs: Look for brown rice pasta shapes, such as Brown Rice Cheddar Shells or Brown Rice White Cheddar Elbows, for a gluten-free mac and cheese that still delivers classic texture. Best for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Product Facts

• Cheddar Elbows: Chickpea mac n' cheese that'll make your whole dinner table go quiet, except for the clinking of spoons and occasional deep sigh of satisfaction. This one is the OG classic: elbows and yellow cheddar cheese. Except this mac attack is even better than your childhood version. These elbows hit different. Packed with protein. Filled with fiber. If you want a classic elbow shape with a protein and fiber boost, this is a reliable pick that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Deluxe Elbows: Chickpea mac n' cheese that more than lives up to the title of 'Deluxe.' Rich. Delicious. It practically makes itself. This superior mac packs the creamy cheddar taste your family loves into an easy-to-make package. Plus, more protein and fiber than your average mac. Choose this when you want a more indulgent, deluxe shape that still delivers the protein and fiber benefits of chickpea pasta.
• Brown Rice Cheddar Shells: As the gluten free pasta pros, we've created a creamy, perfectly al dente mac & cheese made with brown rice pasta. Crafted for that iconic, cheesy flavor and classic pasta texture with none of the gluten. If you need a gluten-free option and love shells for their sauce-holding ability, this is a great choice that doesn't compromise on texture.

Which Shape Fits You?

Best For

• Families with kids who prefer classic elbow shapes
• Anyone seeking a gluten-free mac and cheese with a familiar texture
• Those who want a protein-rich meal with a satisfying bite

Not For

• People who prefer very small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo
• Those who want a low-carb pasta alternative (chickpea and brown rice pasta still contain carbs)

Choosing the right mac and cheese shape comes down to your priorities: classic comfort, sauce-loving shells, or a protein-packed deluxe option. Consider your gluten needs and the texture you enjoy most, and you'll find the perfect fit for your next meal.