Creamy Cheesy Pasta

Ingredients

1 pound (450g) pasta (any shape you prefer)
2 cups (500ml) heavy cream
2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon (15g) butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon (5g) salt
1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) paprika
1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried Italian herbs
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment Needed

Large pot for boiling pasta
Medium skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Strainer
Measuring cups and spoons
Cheese grater

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Melt the Butter:
- In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the Cream:
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine with the garlic butter mixture. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Add the Seasonings:
- Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried Italian herbs to the simmering cream. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
Incorporate the Cheeses:
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring constantly until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Mix the Pasta with the Sauce:
- Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently toss the pasta, ensuring every piece is well-coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Plate the Dish:
- Once the pasta is thoroughly mixed with the sauce, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the creamy cheesy pasta to serving plates or a large serving dish.
Garnish:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top of the pasta for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Success

Cheese Quality: Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor and texture. Freshly grated cheese melts better and avoids the clumping often seen with pre-shredded varieties.
Pasta Shape: Choose pasta shapes that can hold the creamy sauce well, such as macaroni, penne, or fusilli.
Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta. Adjust the seasoning if necessary to suit your taste preferences.
Texture: If the sauce thickens too much while mixing with the pasta, add a splash of the pasta cooking water to thin it out.

Variations

Bacon Cheesy Pasta:
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce for a smoky, savory twist.
Veggie Cheesy Pasta:
- Incorporate steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers into the pasta for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Cheesy Pasta:
- Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

With a Salad:
- Serve the creamy cheesy pasta alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
Garlic Bread:
- Pair the pasta with garlic bread or a crusty baguette for a complete and satisfying meal.
Protein Addition:
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and a more substantial dish.

This Creamy Cheesy Pasta is a crowd-pleaser, offering the perfect blend of rich flavors and creamy textures. It’s an easy-to-make dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful combination of pasta and cheese, and savor every creamy, cheesy bite. Happy cooking!