Looking for a quick, creamy, and comforting pasta dish that satisfies every craving? This One-Pan White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Delight is the perfect choice. With a velvety cheese sauce and a blend of rich white cheddar and mozzarella, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and requires minimal cleanup—making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy, cheesy pasta dish comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for busy nights when you crave something comforting and delicious. With a rich, smooth sauce and melty cheese, this dish is perfect for pasta lovers, vegetarians, and anyone who enjoys quick and easy meals.
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One-pan meal – minimal mess, maximum flavor
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Vegetarian-friendly – perfect for meatless meals
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Quick and easy – ready in just 30 minutes
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Kid-friendly – a pasta dish everyone will love
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Customizable – add veggies or proteins for variety
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Pasta
300g pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or shells work great!)
For the Sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Optional Garnish
Chopped parsley
Extra cheese
Red pepper flakes
Tips and Tricks
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Stir frequently while cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure an even distribution of sauce.
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Customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms, or even some grilled chicken for extra protein.
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For a spicy twist, add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
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If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Variations and Customizations
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Make it cheesy: Add extra cheese for an even richer flavor. Try mixing in parmesan for more depth.
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Add vegetables: Toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
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Protein options: Grilled chicken, bacon bits, or sausage can be added for a meaty twist.
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Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your flour is certified gluten-free.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
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A side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette
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Garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce
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A glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
Storage Instructions
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a little extra milk to rehydrate the sauce.
Popular Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta and cheese sauce in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when ready to serve.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne, fusilli, or shells work best because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. However, any short pasta will work.
Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?
Yes, heavy cream will make the sauce even richer and creamier, but it will add more calories.