Cheese pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s always a hit! Here’s a simple recipe for a creamy, cheesy pasta:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta of your choice (such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2% for creamier sauce)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder for extra flavor
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux (a thickening base for the sauce). Be careful not to let it brown.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg or garlic powder to taste.
- Combine:
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, tossing until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- You can customize the cheese pasta by adding extras like crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas.
- For a richer sauce, use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or mozzarella.
- To make a baked cheese pasta, transfer the sauced pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
This dish is perfect as a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying side!