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Easy Cheesy Pasta Recipe

BySoha

Easy Cheesy Pasta Recipe delivers bold flavor with a clean, refined approach. The sauce turns silky, rich, and perfectly balanced without feeling heavy. Every step focuses on technique, not shortcuts, so the final dish tastes polished and intentional. Ideal for weeknights or casual hosting, this pasta brings restaurant-level quality straight to your kitchen.

Ingredients List

  • 250 g pasta (penne, fusilli, or macaroni)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk, warm
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional: 2 tbsp grated parmesan

Step-by-Step Instructions

cheesy pasta
Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, following package timing. Drain completely and set aside.

Prepare the base

Heat butter and olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add flour and whisk constantly for about 30 seconds until smooth and lightly cooked.

Build the sauce

Slowly pour in warm milk while whisking to keep the texture lump-free. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Add cheese and seasoning

Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar and mozzarella in small portions, stirring until fully melted before adding more. Season with garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated and glossy.

Cook Time

20 minutes

Servings

2 to 3 servings

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 16 g
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Calcium: 30% DV

Storage Instructions

Allow pasta to cool fully before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a small splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Suggestions

Serve alongside a fresh green salad or lightly roasted vegetables for balance. A sprinkle of parmesan or cracked black pepper just before serving adds depth. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms pair naturally with the creamy base.

Seasonal Relevance

Cheesy pasta fits every season with ease. Cooler months highlight its comforting nature, while warmer months benefit from pairing it with lighter sides and fresh produce.

Conclusion

Easy Cheesy Pasta stands out through precision and restraint. Careful heat control and proper cheese handling create a sauce that feels smooth, rich, and professional. Reliable, satisfying, and repeat-worthy, this recipe earns a permanent place in any home kitchen.

Easy Cheesy Pasta Recipe
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Easy Cheesy Pasta Recipe

Recipe by Soha
Servings

2 to 3

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

1260

kcal
Total time

30

minutes

Easy cheesy pasta made with a smooth, creamy cheese sauce that coats every bite perfectly. Simple ingredients, controlled heat, and proper technique create a rich yet balanced dish suitable for quick meals or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

  • 250 g pasta (penne, fusilli, or macaroni)

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups whole milk, warm

  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly grated

  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • ¼ tsp garlic powder

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • Salt, to taste

Directions

  • Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Melt butter with olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 30 seconds until smooth.
  • Slowly add warm milk while whisking. Cook until lightly thickened.
  • Reduce heat and add cheddar and mozzarella in small batches, stirring until melted. Season with garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
  • Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Serve hot.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Low heat prevents the sauce from turning grainy.
  • Add a splash of milk while reheating to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can a different type of milk be used for the sauce?
Whole milk produces the creamiest result, but low-fat milk can work with a slightly lighter texture. Plant-based milk should be unsweetened and neutral in flavor.

How can the sauce be adjusted if it becomes too thick?
Warm milk or reserved pasta water can be added gradually while stirring until the desired consistency returns.

Is baked cheesy pasta possible with this recipe?
Yes. Transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 190°C for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden.

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