Picture a cozy evening with your family gathered around the table, plates laden with creamy cheddar pasta. Next to it sits a bright green salad, maybe a loaf of crusty bread, and let’s not forget a glass of your favorite wine or fizzy drink.
Sounds tempting, right? That’s exactly the vibe this cheddar pasta recipe radiates. It’s not only comforting, but it also creates the perfect centerpiece for a lovely dinner. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, this pasta shines bright and suits any occasion.
Let’s talk about one of life’s simple pleasures: pasta smothered with melted cheese. This cheddar pasta recipe is a must-try, blending gooey cheese with perfectly cooked pasta for a delightful meal that’s easy to throw together.
In a world where culinary prowess can often seem overwhelming, this dish stands out for its straightforwardness and incredible comfort factor. We’re keeping it simple yet delicious, and that’s a promise!
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What is cheddar pasta recipe?
At its core, the cheddar pasta recipe is a creamy pasta dish enhanced by the rich flavors of cheddar cheese—all that cheesy goodness envelops beautiful noodles, making every bite familiar and comforting. The addition of garlic and a hint of lemon juice brightens the dish while fresh parsley tips in a pop of color and freshness. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
Before we dive headfirst into the deliciousness, here’s a list of ingredients you’ll want to gather for our cheesy masterpiece:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 heaped tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1-1½ cups milk (whole milk works best)
– ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
– 2 cups shredded cheese of your choice (I prefer 1 cup sharp cheddar, ½ cup mozzarella, and ½ cup Parmesan)
– A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
– Juice of half a fresh lemon
– Salt & pepper to taste
– 500 g pasta of your choice (cooked al dente, reserve 1 cup of the cooking water)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for added flavor)
– Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick
The slight adjustments in ingredients not only enhance flavors but also provide a tantalizing twist to the classic recipe.
Ingredients From : simply-delicious-food.com
How to make This cheddar pasta recipe?
Let’s get ready to create some magic in the kitchen! This dish is simple yet satisfying, and once you follow these steps, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip it up. Grab your apron, and let’s get started!
Step-by-step directions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
In a large, deep frying pan, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. This is a crucial step; you want that butter to go bubbly! Once it’s melted, throw in your minced garlic. Sauté it gently, stirring for about 1-2 minutes, until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Keep an eye on it; burnt garlic is not our friend.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Next up, carefully sprinkle in the heaped tablespoon of flour. Use a whisk to blend this into the garlic and butter. You’re forming a roux which will thicken the sauce. Whisk for another minute to cook that floury taste out; this is all about building flavor.
Step 3: Stir in the Milk
Now, it’s time to turn our roux into something creamy! Gradually whisk in 1-1½ cups of milk, making sure there are no lumps in sight (because nobody enjoys a lumpy sauce). Keep simmering—just lower the heat a bit—until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. If you’re using it, add the ½ cup of heavy cream at this point for an extra luxurious touch.
Step 4: Cheese, Please!
Having achieved a delightful creamy base, turn off the heat and fold in 2 cups of shredded cheese along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating that dreamy, cheesy sauce. Don’t forget to add the chopped parsley and the fresh lemon juice—these elevate this dish, making it sing.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Gently add your cooked pasta into the pan with the sauce, and stir it all together. If the sauce looks a bit thick, don’t fret! Toss in a splash of that reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency. You want that sauce to cling to your pasta like a best friend.
Step 6: Serve Up!
Transfer the cheesy goodness to your favorite serving dish and maybe sprinkle a bit more parsley or cheese on top for visual appeal. Dig in right away while it’s warm and gooey!
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh garlic. Fresh ingredients always make a difference in flavor!
– Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist—try gouda or fontina!
– For a healthier version, switch half of the pasta with steamed veggies or whole grain pasta.
– Always reserve some pasta water; it’s a lifesaver if your sauce is a tad too thick.
– If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
If you find yourself with any leftovers (which can be difficult!), let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, and it should last about 3-4 days. If you want to reheat, toss in a little more milk or cream to help bring back the creaminess.
What sides would complement?
1. Simple Green Salad: A mix of greens with a light vinaigrette will cut through the richness.
2. Garlic Bread: Because what goes better with pasta than buttery, garlicky bread?
3. Grilled Veggies: Tossed in olive oil, these add vibrant color and health.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes—so refreshing!
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Spice them up with some balsamic vinegar for a delightful contrast.
What other substitutes can I use in cheddar pasta recipe?
1. Low-fat Cream Cheese: Swap heavy cream to cut down calories without sacrificing creaminess.
2. Gluten-Free Pasta: Perfect for gluten-sensitive friends!
3. Almond Milk or Soy Milk: Great dairy alternatives if you’re avoiding animal products.
4. Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy flavor without the calories—great for vegans!
5. Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb option for a veggie twist on this classic.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delightful, creamy cheddar pasta recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its simplicity, paired with the versatility of flavors, makes it a winner at any dinner table. With a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create comfort food that hugs you from the inside out.
So go ahead, gather your loved ones, and serve up a dish that will keep them coming back for more. Happy cooking!
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Cheddar Pasta Recipe – Simple Easy Meals
Let’s talk about one of life’s simple pleasures: pasta smothered with melted cheese. This cheddar pasta recipe is a must-try, blending gooey cheese with perfectly cooked pasta for a delightful meal that’s easy to throw together.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
-
In a large, deep frying pan, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. This is a crucial step; you want that butter to go bubbly! Once it’s melted, throw in your minced garlic. Sauté it gently, stirring for about 1-2 minutes, until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Keep an eye on it; burnt garlic is not our friend.
Step 2: Create the Roux
-
Next up, carefully sprinkle in the heaped tablespoon of flour. Use a whisk to blend this into the garlic and butter. You’re forming a roux which will thicken the sauce. Whisk for another minute to cook that floury taste out; this is all about building flavor.
Step 3: Stir in the Milk
-
Now, it’s time to turn our roux into something creamy! Gradually whisk in 1-1½ cups of milk, making sure there are no lumps in sight (because nobody enjoys a lumpy sauce). Keep simmering—just lower the heat a bit—until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. If you’re using it, add the ½ cup of heavy cream at this point for an extra luxurious touch.
Step 4: Cheese, Please!
-
Having achieved a delightful creamy base, turn off the heat and fold in 2 cups of shredded cheese along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating that dreamy, cheesy sauce. Don’t forget to add the chopped parsley and the fresh lemon juice—these elevate this dish, making it sing.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
-
Gently add your cooked pasta into the pan with the sauce, and stir it all together. If the sauce looks a bit thick, don’t fret! Toss in a splash of that reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency. You want that sauce to cling to your pasta like a best friend.
Step 6: Serve Up!
-
Transfer the cheesy goodness to your favorite serving dish and maybe sprinkle a bit more parsley or cheese on top for visual appeal. Dig in right away while it’s warm and gooey!
Note
- Use fresh garlic. Fresh ingredients always make a difference in flavor!
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist—try gouda or fontina!
- For a healthier version, switch half of the pasta with steamed veggies or whole grain pasta.
- Always reserve some pasta water; it's a lifesaver if your sauce is a tad too thick.
- If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.
