Are you craving a delicious and comforting meal that's quick to make? Look no further! This easy pasta recipe with cheese is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. We're talking creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone will love, from beginner cooks to seasoned chefs. This recipe is one of the best recipes for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Creamy Three-Cheese Pasta
This recipe is a simple yet incredibly satisfying pasta dish packed with the deliciousness of three different cheeses. It's a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Create the cheese sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious and easy three-cheese pasta!
Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta:
- Use high-quality cheese: The flavor of your cheese will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish. Look for freshly grated cheeses whenever possible.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs the sauce more effectively.
- Adjust the seasonings: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. You can also experiment with other herbs and spices.
- Add protein: For a more substantial meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta.
Variations:
- Spicy Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Vegetable Pasta: Add sauteed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce.
- Vegetarian Pasta: Omit the meat and add extra vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This easy pasta recipe with cheese is a perfect example of healthy meals that don't require hours in the kitchen. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking, making it a staple in your repertoire of delicious dishes and food recipes. Enjoy!