Cheesy Pasta
Cheesy pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining perfectly cooked pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce that envelops every noodle. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends for dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy every craving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing/Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: Cooked chicken or sautéed spinach/broccoli
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Pour in heavy cream while stirring. Gradually add cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, tossing until well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- For extra indulgence, transfer to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 100mg