Creamy Cheese Pasta
A rich and velvety Creamy Cheese Pasta that wraps every noodle in indulgent, cheesy goodness. This comforting dish is quick, customizable, and perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
- Author: Ava
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Pasta: 12 oz (340g) of fettuccine or penne
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Milk: 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- Heavy cream: ½ cup (120ml)
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup (100g) sharp cheddar, shredded
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (50g), grated
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground
- Nutmeg (optional): A pinch
- Preheat Your Equipment: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and preheat your saucepan over medium heat.
- Combine Ingredients: Melt butter in the saucepan, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute until a roux forms.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Assemble the Dish: Add shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan. Stir until fully melted and the sauce is velvety.
- Cook to Perfection: Boil pasta until al dente, then drain (reserving ½ cup of pasta water). Stir cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, adding reserved water as needed.
- Finishing Touches: Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Stir well to coat every strand.
- Serve and Enjoy: Dish it up hot, maybe with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or chopped parsley for color.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for best texture and flavor.
- Warm the milk before adding it to the roux for a smoother sauce.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: creamy cheese pasta, cheese pasta recipe, comfort food, quick pasta, weeknight dinner