Hey there, busy chefs! If you’re looking for a no-fuss, creamy, and oh-so-delicious dinner that’ll please the whole family (or just you after a long day), look no further than this One-Pan White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Delight. It’s got everything you crave: creamy cheese, tender pasta, and that glorious just-right texture that makes every bite feel like a hug from the inside. And the best part? You don’t even have to dirty up a bunch of dishes! Yup, this is the one-pan wonder that’ll have you dancing around the kitchen in no time.
Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or both, this recipe is your new weeknight hero. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Delight
If you’re anything like me, you love recipes that don’t require an entire kitchen cleanup after dinner. The beauty of this dish is that it’s all made in a single pan—less mess, more comfort. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare and will give you all the cozy pasta vibes without any complicated steps. Seriously, it’s the answer to all your “I don’t want to cook tonight” dilemmas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 4–6
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni work great!)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (you do you)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skip the garlic—trust me!)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or diced cooked chicken
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional but oh-so-pretty)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Grab a large skillet (trust me, the bigger the better for this one-pan recipe) and combine the pasta, broth, and butter. Bring it all to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to keep things from sticking. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is al dente, and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Give it a good stir to make sure everything’s cooking evenly.
Step 2: Add the Cream and Garlic
Now comes the magic—stir in the heavy cream and minced garlic. Cook it for another 2–3 minutes, just long enough for that sauce to thicken slightly. The garlic will start to fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. You’re almost there!
Step 3: Melt in the Cheese
Here’s where the delight in our One-Pan White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Delight really comes into play: Add the shredded white cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, a little at a time, stirring constantly. Watch as it melts into a creamy, gooey masterpiece. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you’re feeling fancy (or just want to up the flavor), stir in some optional add-ins like steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or leftover chicken. The more, the merrier, right?
Step 4: Serve
Take the pan off the heat and let the pasta sit for about 1–2 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken up even more. Then, garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you’re in the mood for a little extra flair (and some green to make it look fancy). Serve hot, and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Cooking Tips to Make This Even Better
- Want it lighter? You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even milk. The cheese still works its magic to create a creamy sauce, just with a bit less richness.
- Picky eaters? You can customize the add-ins to suit your family’s tastes. Try mixing in some peas, bell peppers, or a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Leftovers? This dish is perfect for meal prep! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and enjoy!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni all work wonderfully here, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’re good to go. For extra protein, you can toss in some chickpeas or tofu.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to bring it back to life.
Wrap-Up
I’m telling you, this One-Pan White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Delight is a keeper. It’s the kind of dish that’s comforting enough to soothe your soul but quick enough to make even on the busiest weeknights. I bet it’ll soon be part of your regular dinner rotation, and who knows—it might just become your new go-to for family gatherings or last-minute dinner dates.
So, the next time you’re feeling the need for something creamy, cheesy, and totally delicious, you know exactly where to turn! Happy cooking, and don’t forget to give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!