Cheese pasta is a dish that brings comfort and joy to countless tables around the world. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and the simple allure of melted cheese come together to create an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself, cheese pasta is an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. You’ll shortly find out just how easy and delightful it is to whip up this cheesy masterpiece.
Why We Love This Cheese Pasta Recipe
What makes this cheese pasta recipe stand out is its simplicity combined with a richness that pleases your palate. Often, the most satisfying dishes are those that require minimal ingredients yet pack a punch when it comes to flavor. The combination of chicken broth, half and half, and a variety of seasonings creates a robust sauce that makes you yearn for more. Adding broccoli not only makes the dish more colorful but also adds a mild crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy pasta.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily modify it to accommodate your preferences or dietary needs. Want to add more veggies? Go for it! Prefer a different kind of cheese? Absolutely! This flexibility allows you to make cheese pasta that aligns with your taste while still enjoying that classic comfort food essence.
Gather your favorite ingredients, bring out your creativity, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of cheese pasta!
Ingredients About Cheese Pasta
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need an assortment of ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each component plays a vital role in the flavor and texture of your cheese pasta.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 chicken bouillon cube
- 1 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s hot sauce)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp basil
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp parsley
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli, very finely chopped
- 1/2 lb Gemelli pasta
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
How to Make Cheese Pasta Directions
Ready to dive into the cooking process? Making cheese pasta is straightforward and requires only a bit of your time and effort. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get started!
Prepare the Broth Mixture: Begin by combining the chicken broth, half and half, chicken bouillon cube, hot sauce, and all the seasonings (onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, basil, mustard powder, and parsley) in a large measuring cup. Give this mixture a good stir and set it aside. This will be the flavorful base for your pasta dish.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil to prepare for cooking your Gemelli pasta. Remember, salting the water not only adds flavor but also helps the pasta cook beautifully. Add the Gemelli to the boiling water and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes. This will create a roux, which serves as the thickening agent in your cheese sauce. Be careful not to let it brown.
Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the broth mixture to your roux, doing so in small splashes while constantly stirring. This step is crucial to avoid lumps in your cheese sauce. As the sauce comes together, add the finely chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.
Finish the Dish: Bring the heat back to low and gradually incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and combines beautifully with the sauce. Finally, add your drained pasta to the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy goodness.
Serve Warm: Your cheese pasta is now ready to be served. Load it onto plates while it’s still warm, and if you desire, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
How to Serve Cheese Pasta
Serving cheese pasta is an art in itself. You want to ensure that each individual is treated to a mouthful of flavor, so presentation can make a difference. A beautiful dish starts with a good plate. Here’s how you can serve this delicious meal:
Plating: Use a large spoon to serve pasta directly from the skillet, or if you’ve transferred it to a serving dish, use tongs to carefully place a generous helping onto each plate. Ensure that the pieces of broccoli are visible, giving it an appealing look.
Garnish: To elevate the dish, consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if your taste buds crave a bit more heat.
Accompaniment: Cheese pasta pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side. These additions not only round out the meal but also allow diners to enjoy a variety of flavors.
Perfect Timing: Serve cheese pasta immediately while it’s still hot. The creamy sauce will be at its peak consistency, making it a delightful centerpiece for your meal.
Expert Tips: Cheese Pasta
As you embark on your journey to create this delightful cheese pasta dish, consider these handy expert tips that can make the cooking process even smoother:
Quality Ingredients: The quality of your cheese can significantly impact the flavor of your dish. Opt for a good brand of cheddar cheese for the best results.
Season to Taste: Don’t shy away from tasting your sauce as you cook. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference. If you enjoy a hint of spice, add more hot sauce bit by bit.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: When incorporating broccoli, add it to the sauce at a stage where it can cook just enough to maintain some crunch. Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy and lose its vibrant color.
Pasta Choice Matters: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes! While Gemelli works wonderfully, you could also try rotini, penne, or even macaroni for a different texture.
Make It Your Own: Cheese pasta is a blank canvas! You can add cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or even peas to enrich the dish further.
How to Store Cheese Pasta
After enjoying your meal, you might find yourself with some leftovers. Cheese pasta stores well if you follow these simple guidelines:
Cooling: Allow leftover cheese pasta to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation and sogginess.
Container: Place your pasta in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Make sure the lid is securely fastened to eliminate exposure to the air.
Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator, where it should last for up to three days.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in a microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up while heating.
Variations of Cheese Pasta
While the classic cheese pasta is undeniably delicious, there are many variations you can explore to keep things interesting:
Vegetable Medley: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for added nutrition and color. Sauté them before mixing them into the cheese sauce.
Protein-Packed: Incorporating cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can turn this dish into a more substantial meal. Simply add the protein after the cheese has melted for a delightful combination.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese types. Gruyère, mozzarella, or even blue cheese can add unique flavors that elevate the dish in unexpected ways.
Baked Version: For a crispy crust, transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle additional cheese on top, and place it under the broiler for a few minutes.
Spicy Cheese Pasta: If you enjoy a kick, consider adding jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder to the sauce. This twist can awaken your senses and bring a new dimension to the dish.
FAQ Section
What is cheese pasta?
Cheese pasta is a comforting dish made with pasta, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce, often enhanced with seasonings and vegetables. It’s an easy and versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste.
How do you make cheese pasta creamy?
For a creamy texture, a mixture of half and half and chicken broth creates a smooth sauce. Additionally, the addition of shredded cheese further enhances creaminess and flavor.
Can cheese pasta be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make cheese pasta vegetarian by skipping the chicken broth or using vegetable broth instead. You can also load it with your favorite vegetables for a hearty meal.
How can I enhance the flavor of cheese pasta?
You can enhance the flavor of cheese pasta by adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, or even a little hot sauce. Choosing a high-quality cheese also makes a significant difference in taste.
How long can you store cheese pasta?
Cheese pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cool it beforehand and reheat it with a splash of liquid for the best texture.
Cheese Pasta
Equipment
- Pot
- Skillet
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 cube chicken bouillon cube
- 1 tsp hot sauce e.g., Frank’s hot sauce
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp basil
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp parsley
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli very finely chopped
- 1/2 lb Gemelli pasta
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
- Combine chicken broth, half and half, chicken bouillon cube, hot sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, basil, mustard powder, and parsley in a large measuring cup. Stir well and set aside.
- Cook Gemelli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1-2 minutes to form a roux without browning.
- Gradually whisk the broth mixture into the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add finely chopped broccoli, bring to a gentle boil, then simmer until slightly thickened.
- Lower heat and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Add cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve warm with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.