Name: Indulge in Cheesy Pasta Bliss: Creamy, Dreamy, and Irresistible
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni); 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk (whole or 2%); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional, for topping); 1 tbsp butter (for topping, optional)

Description

Indulge in Cheesy Pasta Bliss is the ultimate comfort food — a creamy, gooey, and irresistible pasta dish loaded with layers of melted cheese, tender noodles, and a luscious sauce. Every bite is rich, flavorful, and guaranteed to satisfy your cheesy cravings!

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
1 tbsp butter (for topping, optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add 1 1/2 cups cheddar, 1/2 cup mozzarella, and 1/4 cup Parmesan to the sauce. Stir until melted and smooth.
Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Top with remaining cheeses and sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired. Dot with 1 tablespoon of butter.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, gooey, cheesy perfection!

Notes

Use any combination of cheeses — Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or provolone add extra flavor.
For added texture, stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cooked chicken.
Make it extra creamy by mixing in a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce.
Leftovers reheat beautifully — add a splash of milk before reheating to restore creaminess.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American