Cheese pasta has become a beloved comfort food in households around the world. Its creamy texture, combined with the delightful flavors of perfectly melted cheese, allows it to stand out as an irresistible dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly evening, cheese pasta checks all the right boxes. The beauty of cheese pasta lies not just in its taste but also in its adaptability. With a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, you can whip up a gorgeous, cheesy delight that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings.
Why We Love This Cheese Pasta Recipe
This cheese pasta recipe holds a special place in the hearts of many. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, even if you consider yourself a novice in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients, you can have a mouthwatering dish ready to serve in no time. The creaminess of the sauce compliments the pasta beautifully, and the addition of broccoli elevates it with a touch of nutrition and color.
Another reason why this recipe is favored is its versatility. You can personalize it based on your preferences; add different vegetables, spices, or even proteins to create variations that suit your tastes. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies or even venture into new flavor territory. Plus, cheese pasta is a family-friendly dish that everyone can enjoy, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings with loved ones.
Ingredients for Cheese Pasta
To get started, gather the following ingredients that are sure to bring your cheese pasta dish to life.
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 chicken bouillon cube
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon basil
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon parsley
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli, finely chopped
- 1/2 lb. Gemelli pasta
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
How to Make Cheese Pasta
Making cheese pasta is as enjoyable as eating it. Begin with preparing your ingredients so that everything is within reach. The cooking process is straightforward, but it does require your attention to achieve the best results.
Combine the Broth Mixture: In a measuring cup, mix together the chicken broth, half and half, chicken bouillon cube, hot sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, basil, mustard powder, and parsley. Once combined, set this mixture aside. This will be the foundation for your creamy cheese sauce.
Prepare the Pasta Water: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Don’t forget to salt it generously, as this is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
Melt the Butter: While the water is boiling, take a medium-sized skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. This will create a base for your sauce.
Make the Roux: Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour, and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden brown color. This step is crucial for developing the flavor of your sauce.
Add the Broth Mixture: Gradually pour in the broth mixture you previously prepared, continuously stirring to avoid lumps. This is where your sauce begins to take shape.
Incorporate the Broccoli: After the sauce has thickened slightly, add the finely chopped broccoli. It’ll soften as the sauce simmers and infuse nutrients into your dish.
Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, your pasta water should be boiling. Add the Gemelli pasta and cook it until it reaches the al dente stage, usually around 8-10 minutes.
Combine: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and reduce the heat of your sauce to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is delightfully creamy.
Mix Everything Together: Finally, if you want a more well-mixed dish, add the cooked pasta to your cheese sauce. Stir until every piece of pasta is evenly coated.
Serve and Enjoy: Your cheese pasta is ready to serve! Plate it up, and don’t be shy about adding extra cheese on top for that additional gooeyness.
How to Serve Cheese Pasta
When it comes to serving your cheese pasta, the presentation can elevate the experience. Serve your cheese pasta on warm plates to keep it toasty for longer. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan on top adds an elegant touch, while a few fresh parsley leaves can enhance the visual appeal.
Consider pairing your cheese pasta with a light side salad to balance the richness of the dish. A refreshing green salad with a simple vinaigrette can complement the flavors beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, garlic bread or a soft dinner roll can provide that satisfying crunch and additional flavor.
As you enjoy your meal, take the time to appreciate the delicious aroma and the comforting warmth of the cheese pasta. This dish is perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
Expert Tips for Cheese Pasta
To ensure that your cheese pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
Cheese Selection: Opt for a good quality cheddar cheese. A sharp cheddar can elevate the flavor profile, while mild cheddar works for those who prefer less intense flavors.
Don’t Rush the Roux: Allow your butter and flour to cook until they’re just golden. This step is crucial to develop the rich flavor you want in the sauce.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can always thin it out with a little additional chicken broth or half and half. Conversely, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer to reach your desired consistency.
Vegetable Varieties: While broccoli adds a lovely texture and flavor, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like spinach, peas, or even mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as necessary.
Storage Plans: If you’re planning to make extra, let the pasta cool completely before storing it. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Store Cheese Pasta
To store your cheese pasta, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature. Transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, you can keep the leftovers fresh for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat using the microwave or a stovetop. If the sauce seems to have thickened, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or half and half to bring it back to that desired creamy consistency.
Reheating Tips:
- Microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a small amount of liquid to prevent it from becoming dry while reheating. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to retain moisture. Heat in intervals to ensure even warming.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of broth or half and half. Stir continuously until warmed through.
Variations of Cheese Pasta
One of the best parts of this cheese pasta dish is its ability to adapt and incorporate other ingredients. Here are a few variations you might want to explore:
Meat Lover’s Cheese Pasta: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even turkey sausage to your dish for added protein. It creates a more filling meal while still keeping the cheesy goodness.
Spicy Cheese Pasta: For those who enjoy a kick, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for that zesty punch.
Herbed Cheese Pasta: Fresh herbs can take your cheese pasta to another level. Add in fresh basil, chives, or parsley after removing it from the heat for a pop of freshness.
Creamy Tomato Variation: Stir in a few tablespoons of tomato sauce or several diced tomatoes to your cheese sauce for a tangy twist. The sweetness of the tomatoes complements the richness of the cheese.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the Gemelli pasta for a gluten-free alternative. There are numerous gluten-free pasta options available that can yield similar satisfying results.
FAQ about Cheese Pasta
What is cheese pasta?
Cheese pasta is a delicious dish that combines pasta with a creamy cheese sauce. It typically includes a few simple ingredients, making it easy and quick to prepare.
How can I make cheese pasta creamier?
To enhance the creaminess of your cheese pasta, be sure to use a blend of cheeses, incorporating both shredded and grated options. Adjusting the amount of half and half can also improve the texture.
Can I add vegetables to cheese pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. It’s a great way to add color, nutrition, and flavor.
How long can I store cheese pasta in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, cheese pasta can be kept in the fridge for up to three days.
Can I freeze cheese pasta?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cheese pasta in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to two months, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cheese Pasta
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Skillet
- Measuring cup
- Whisk
Ingredients
Cheese Pasta Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 0.5 chicken bouillon cube
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp oregano
- 0.5 tsp basil
- 0.5 tsp mustard powder
- 0.5 tsp parsley
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1.5 cups broccoli finely chopped
Pasta & Cheese
- 0.5 lb Gemelli pasta
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
- Combine the broth mixture: In a measuring cup, mix together the chicken broth, half and half, bouillon cube, hot sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, basil, mustard powder, and parsley. Set aside.
- Prepare pasta water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil for the pasta.
- Melt the butter: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Make the roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Add the broth mixture: Gradually pour in the broth mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let it simmer and thicken slightly.
- Add broccoli: Stir in the chopped broccoli and let it cook in the sauce.
- Cook the pasta: Add Gemelli pasta to the boiling water and cook until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain.
- Finish the sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Combine: Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve: Plate warm, garnish with extra cheese or parsley if desired.