Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy? Welcome to the world of "Patient Pasta with Cheese Sauce," a dish that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a comforting meal that serves four and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Whether you're cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this cheesy adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Pasta
- Cheese
- Milk
- Butter
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients: 8 oz pasta (preferably medium-sized shapes like penne or fusilli), 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend), 1 cup whole milk, 3 tablespoons butter, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta cooks, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat, being careful not to brown it.
- Gradually pour milk into the melted butter, whisking constantly to create a smooth base.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly add shredded cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
- Return drained pasta to the pot and pour the warm cheese sauce over it, gently stirring to coat all pasta evenly.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Let the pasta sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the sauce to fully incorporate and slightly thicken.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, optionally garnishing with additional black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for medium-sized shapes like penne or fusilli that hold onto the cheese sauce beautifully. This will enhance every bite with creamy goodness!
- Don’t Rush the Cheese Sauce: When melting the cheese, keep the heat low and stir continuously. This prevents the cheese from clumping and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce.
- Season to Perfection: Taste your cheese sauce before mixing it with the pasta. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking for a truly personalized flavor.
- Use Pasta Water Wisely: If your cheese sauce is too thick, the reserved pasta water is your best friend! Add it gradually to achieve your desired consistency without losing flavor.
- Garnish for Extra Flair: Elevate your dish by garnishing with freshly ground black pepper or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your pasta right after mixing with the cheese sauce. This ensures a warm, creamy dish that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 426kcal
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 61mg
