Creamy White Cheddar Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Cheese Lovers

Creamy White Cheddar Pasta is a dish that has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, and for good reason! This delightful recipe combines the rich, velvety texture of white cheddar cheese with perfectly cooked pasta, creating a comforting meal that warms the soul. The origins of creamy pasta dishes can be traced back to Italian cuisine, where simplicity and quality ingredients reign supreme. However, this particular twist with white cheddar adds a unique flavor profile that many have come to adore.

People love creamy white cheddar pasta not only for its indulgent taste but also for its convenience. It’s a dish that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, creating a satisfying bite that is both rich and comforting. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Join me as we dive into the delicious world of creamy white cheddar pasta!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta (your choice, I prefer fettuccine or penne)
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 1 cup of shredded white cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Make sure to add a generous pinch of salt to the water; this will help flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. **Cook the Pasta**: Once the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. **Drain and Set Aside**: Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water (this will help adjust the sauce later if needed), then drain the pasta in a colander. Set it aside while you prepare the creamy sauce.

Making the Creamy White Cheddar Sauce

4. **Melt the Butter**: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Make sure it doesn’t brown; we just want it melted and bubbly. 5. **Add Flour**: Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken your sauce and give it a nice, creamy texture. 6. **Pour in the Milk**: Gradually add the 2 cups of whole milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, which should take about 3-5 minutes. 7. **Season the Sauce**: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. 8. **Add the Cheeses**: Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually add the 1 cup of shredded white cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

9. **Combine Pasta and Sauce**: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce until it is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. 10. **Final Taste Test**: Give the pasta a final taste test. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne if you like it spicier.

Serving the Dish

11. **Plate the Pasta**: Using tongs or a large spoon, serve the creamy white cheddar pasta onto plates or into bowls. 12. **Garnish**: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness. 13. **Enjoy**: Serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

14. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 15. **Reheating**: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce as it warms up. Stir frequently until heated through.

Variations and Add-Ins

16. **Add Vegetables**: Feel free to add some sautéed vegetables to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition. Broccoli, spinach, or roasted red

Conclusion:

In summary, this Creamy White Cheddar Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The rich, velvety sauce combined with the sharpness of white cheddar creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily add in your favorite vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or even toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with different ingredients, I’m sure you’ll find it to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how your Creamy White Cheddar Pasta turned out and any unique twists you added. Happy cooking! Print