Description
A creamy, cheesy one-pan pasta dish featuring white cheddar and mozzarella. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting meal is rich, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, shells, or rotini)
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 1/2 cups milk or half-and-half
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, splash of cream
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic and onion until soft and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add dry pasta and enough milk (or milk and water) to just cover it. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook uncovered, stirring often, for 10–12 minutes until pasta is tender and liquid reduces to a creamy base.
- Stir in white cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Top with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.
- Mix in steamed broccoli or spinach for added greens.
- Swap cheeses for smoked mozzarella or aged white cheddar for more depth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
