There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of cheesy pasta to warm your heart and soothe your soul. This classic dish is a staple in many households for good reason – it’s simple, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make your own cheesy pasta from scratch. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a cozy and indulgent meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Cheesy Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 3 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
3. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and thicken, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the pasta and cheese sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta. Stir well until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy goodness.
6. Bake (optional): For an extra ooey-gooey touch, transfer the cheesy pasta to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if desired and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Enjoy your homemade cheesy pasta straight from the oven or stovetop. Serve it as a main dish or as a side to your favorite protein. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in with loved ones or as a crowd-pleasing addition to any gathering.
Feel free to get creative with the ingredients – add in some cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or fresh herbs for a flavorful twist. You can also experiment with different types of cheeses to customize the dish to your taste preferences. And remember, the key to a perfect cheesy pasta is to balance the creamy sauce with the al dente pasta for a delightful texture contrast.
Next time you’re craving a comforting meal that brings you joy with each bite, whip up a batch of this cheesy pasta. It’s a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Give it a try and let the irresistible cheesiness melt away your worries!
