You’re about to discover a new favorite comfort food with this one-pan white cheddar mozzarella pasta delight. It’s creamy, cheesy, and comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave something satisfying with minimal cleanup. You’ll love how the white cheddar and mozzarella melt into a luscious sauce that coats every bite of tender pasta.
This recipe is simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to impress anyone at the dinner table. With just one pan, you’ll save time and dishes, and get a delicious meal the whole family will enjoy. Let’s dive into why this white cheddar mozzarella pasta is a must-try.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes for quick weeknight dinners.
- Uses only one pan to minimize cleanup.
- Rich, creamy sauce combining white cheddar and mozzarella.
- Comforting and kid-friendly with simple ingredients.
- Customizable with herbs and optional add-ins like spinach or chicken.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create the perfect creamy pasta. Everything cooks together in one pan, making it easy and efficient.
- 12 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: 1 cup fresh baby spinach or cooked diced chicken breast
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Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
How to Make One-Pan White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Delight
- In a large deep skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and whole milk, then stir in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the penne pasta to the pan and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
- Lower the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded white cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy. If using spinach or cooked chicken, fold it in now to warm through.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil for a bright, fresh finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Remove from heat and let the pasta sit for 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for smoother melting.
- Stir frequently while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the liquid amounts slightly depending on your pasta type to get the perfect creamy consistency.
- Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Let the pasta rest off heat to thicken; if it gets too thick, stir in a bit more milk before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will thicken as it cools, so add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.
For best results, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through and creamy again. This dish is not recommended for freezing due to the dairy content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne with rigatoni, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the shape and size.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat add-ins. The cheese and herbs provide plenty of flavor on their own.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Using whole milk and freshly shredded cheese helps maintain a smooth sauce. Also, keep the heat low when melting cheese and stir constantly to avoid overheating.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can cook the pasta up to the point before adding cheese, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat gently with cheese added fresh to keep the sauce creamy and delicious.