Cheesy Pasta
Cheesy pasta is the ultimate comfort food, blending gooey cheese, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta into a warm, satisfying dish. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With customizable options for added veggies or proteins, every bite feels like a hug from the inside. Get ready to indulge in rich flavors and delightful textures that will have you dreaming about cheesy pasta long after the last bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (dried)
- 1 cup spinach or bell peppers (chopped) (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Sauté Garlic: In a pan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring. Add salt, pepper, and herbs; let it thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese: Stir in mozzarella and cheddar until melted and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Fold cooked pasta into the cheese sauce gently. If using, add veggies at this stage.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 80mg