There’s just something about a warm, comforting bowl of pasta that hits the spot. Whether you’re in the mood for a creamy three-cheese mac and cheese or a spicy jalapeño cheddar pasta bake, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering creamy cheesy pasta recipes that are sure to become your new go-to comfort foods. From classic combinations like garlic parmesan and baked mozzarella and tomato, to more adventurous options like truffle oil mac and cheese and cajun shrimp and cheese, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a fork, get cozy, and let’s dive in!
Ultimate Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this creamy, cheesy macaroni dish that combines the best of cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère cheese until smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Creamy Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of garlic and the creaminess of a velvety sauce, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, spaghetti)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Pasta Bake
This creamy pasta bake combines the heat of jalapeños with the richness of cheddar, creating a spicy and satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 cup cooked chorizo sausage, crumbled
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add crumbled chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chopped jalapeños to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chorizo mixture, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cilantro in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Gouda and Bacon Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of creamy Gouda cheese and crispy bacon in this indulgent pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Gouda cheese
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from pan with slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add mushrooms to the same skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Gouda cheese until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with creamy sauce until well coated.
7. Return bacon to the skillet and toss with pasta and sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Four-Cheese Alfredo Fettuccine
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy Four-Cheese Alfredo Fettuccine recipe, featuring a blend of four artisanal cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Gouda cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large saucepan, combine butter, garlic, Parmesan, Gruyère, Gouda, and Mascarpone cheese. Whisk until smooth.
3. Pour in heavy cream and whisk until fully incorporated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked fettuccine to the cheese sauce and toss until well coated, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Mozzarella and Tomato Pasta
Experience the simplicity of a delicious homemade pasta dish with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and diced tomato to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices and start to caramelize.
5. In a separate baking dish, combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese recipe. This decadent dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 4 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine truffle oil, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Stir over low heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
A creamy, spicy twist on a classic comfort food dish! This recipe combines the rich flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting warmth of macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 pound cooked chicken, diced
– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, salt, and pepper; stir until well combined.
7. Combine macaroni and cheese mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Cheese Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish packed with the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach and artichoke hearts; cook until spinach is wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in flour to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Combine cooked pasta and sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Gouda and Mushroom Pasta
A creamy and savory pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of smoked gouda cheese with sautéed mushrooms and tender spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in smoked gouda cheese until melted and smooth. Add heavy cream and reserved pasta water; stir to combine.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet; toss until well coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Brie and Prosciutto Pasta
This indulgent pasta dish combines the richness of creamy brie cheese with the salty, crispy texture of prosciutto. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup brie cheese, softened
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine softened brie cheese, garlic, and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add cooked prosciutto to the skillet and stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing until coated in the creamy sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto and Goat Cheese Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the creamy richness of goat cheese with the vibrant flavors of basil pesto, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 3 oz. crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine pesto and goat cheese. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and well combined with the pesto.
3. Add Parmesan cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the saucepan with the pesto mixture. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Cheese and Walnut Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and crunchy combination of blue cheese and walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add blue cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add chopped walnuts to the skillet and toss with blue cheese mixture.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with blue cheese and walnut mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Cheese Pasta
A spicy twist on classic pasta, this Cajun-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and a kick of heat from the bayou. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and fully cooked.
3. Add Cajun seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe
Summary: Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent Lobster Mac and Cheese recipe, featuring succulent chunks of lobster meat baked in a rich, creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 lb cooked lobster meat (about 3 oz)
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat; stir in cheddar, Parmesan, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked macaroni and lobster meat to the cheese sauce; mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese. This comforting recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Stir in Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Add heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and onion mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Ricotta Pasta
Sun-Dried Tomato and Ricotta Pasta Recipe
Summary: This classic Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, creamy ricotta cheese, and al dente spaghetti. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and reserved pasta water. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until the mixture is warm and fragrant.
3. Stir in ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, sun-dried tomato mixture, and chopped basil leaves (if using). Toss everything together until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake
A twist on classic pasta bake, this recipe combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of a warm, cheesy casserole.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add taco seasoning and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, meat mixture, and shredded cheese in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Garlic and White Cheddar Pasta
Roasted Garlic and White Cheddar Pasta: A Creamy, Comforting Dish
A rich and indulgent pasta dish that combines the pungency of roasted garlic with the creaminess of white cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 heads of garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the garlic in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed-like.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a large saucepan, combine roasted garlic, white cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Stir over low heat until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine cooked pasta and the garlic-cheese sauce. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and veggie-packed recipe that combines the flavors of broccoli, cheddar, and shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and beaten egg. Stir until smooth.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the broccoli-cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top of shells and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, cheesy pasta recipes that will satisfy your comfort food cravings! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes features an array of flavors and textures, from classic mac and cheese to spicy jalapeño-infused twists. From truffle oil to buffalo chicken, blue cheese to cajun shrimp, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a creamy brie and prosciutto or a cheesy taco pasta bake, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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