Cheese Pasta
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of cheese pasta, a dish that combines the comforting texture of pasta with a luscious cheese sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to your taste. Whether you prefer a sharp cheddar or a mellow mozzarella, cheese pasta will surely satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Let’s dive into this cheesy delight!
Ingredients
– 200g pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 100g cheddar cheese, grated
– 100g mozzarella cheese, grated
– 50g parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) of cheese pasta contains approximately:
– Calories: 650
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Fat: 35g
– Fiber: 2g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
5. Gradually add the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, stirring until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Drain the pasta and add it to the cheese sauce.
8. Toss well to ensure the pasta is coated evenly.
9. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version. For the cheeses, feel free to mix in your favorites, such as gouda or feta, to create unique flavor profiles.
Serving and Pairings
Cheese pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Freezing is not recommended as the pasta may become mushy.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using low-quality cheese can affect flavor and texture.
- Overcooking the pasta will make it mushy.
- Not seasoning the pasta water can lead to bland pasta.
- Skipping the garlic can reduce flavor depth.
- Not stirring the cheese sauce can cause it to clump.
Helpful Tips
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of pasta water to the sauce.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Keep the heat low when melting the cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy.
- Add cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?
Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used as a healthier alternative. It may alter the texture slightly, but it will still taste great.
How can I make this cheese pasta spicier?
To add a kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the cheese sauce.
Is this recipe easy to double?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and use a larger pot to cook the pasta and sauce.
Can I make cheese pasta in advance?
You can prepare the cheese sauce and pasta separately in advance, then combine and reheat just before serving.
What other flavors can I add?
Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Cheese pasta is a versatile dish that’s perfect for any cheese lover. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it makes for a comforting meal that can be enjoyed anytime. Customize it to your taste, and you’ll have a go-to recipe that never disappoints!
Cheese Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta e.g., penne or fusilli
- 100 g cheddar cheese grated
- 100 g mozzarella cheese grated
- 50 g parmesan cheese grated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Gradually add the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, stirring until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the cheese sauce.
- Toss well to ensure the pasta is coated evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
