# Cheesy Pasta Delight
## Introduction
If you are a cheese lover who also can’t get enough of pasta, this Cheesy Pasta Dish recipe is just for you. This pasta dish is richly flavorful, creamy, and simply delicious. Stuffed with gooey melted cheese, this pasta dish is the ultimate comfort food that you can easily make at home.
## Why Make This Recipe
Diving into a bowl of this cheesy pasta will make your taste buds jump for joy. This recipe is not only mouth-wateringly delicious but is also quick to prepare and requires only simple ingredients. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or when you need a quick meal that does not compromise on flavor.
## How to Make Cheesy Pasta Delight
Creating this delicious dish incorporates a simple 3 step-process: cooking pasta, preparing the cheese sauce, and then combining it all together before baking.
## Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
– 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
## Directions
Follow these steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add flour. Stir continuously to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer for about 3 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat all pasta.
5. Transfer the cheesy pasta to a lightly greased baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with parmesan cheese and sprinkle evenly on top.
6. Drizzle a little olive oil over the breadcrumbs for extra crispness. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
7. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
## How to Serve Cheesy Pasta Delight
Serve this dish warm, right after garnishing with some fresh parsley. You can add a side of a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to make it a complete meal.
## How to Store Cheesy Pasta Delight
Store any leftovers in an airtight container, it can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat in a microwave, stirring occasionally to distribute heat.
## Tips to Make Cheesy Pasta Delight
Here are some tips to make the best cheesy pasta:
– Use a blend of your favorite cheese for a complex flavor profile.
– Add in cooked chicken or bacon for an added layer of flavor.
– Sprinkle additional cheese on top before the final baking step for extra cheesiness.
## Variations
You can add grilled chicken, bacon, vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to this cheesy pasta to provide additional flavors and texture.
## FAQs
-Q: Can I use other pasta shapes?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta shape of your preference.
-Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free pasta and flour to make it gluten-free.
-Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, this dish can be frozen before baking. Remember to cover it tightly before storing it in the freezer.