Description

Cheesy pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. With golden noodles enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into this creamy delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (or non-dairy alternative)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional add-ins: cooked broccoli, chicken, or bacon

Instructions

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden.
Gradually whisk in milk until smooth; continue stirring until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
Reduce heat to low, then mix in the shredded cheeses until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine the drained pasta with the cheese sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 460
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Use freshly grated cheese for the best meltability. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk.