Creamy Cheese Pasta: A Dish Close to My Heart
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy cheese pasta. It’s my go-to dish when I need a hug in food form!
The rich, velvety sauce, combined with the perfect balance of tomatoes and cheese, makes this a family favorite.
Inspired by cozy Italian dinners and my love for melted mozzarella, this recipe will transport you to a rustic kitchen in the heart of Italy.
Essential Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Large Skillet | Cooking the sauce | Kitchenware stores, online |
| Saucepan | Boiling the pasta | Supermarkets, online |
| Baking Dish | Baking the final dish | Kitchen specialty stores |
| Chef’s Knife | Chopping ingredients | Home goods stores |
| Wooden Spoon | Stirring and mixing | General stores, online |
Prep & Cook Time
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 40g Unsalted butter
- 80g Onion, finely chopped
- 10g Garlic, minced
- 50g Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 200g Sausage, sliced
- 100g Whipping cream
- 1/3 tsp Salt
- 2 tsp Sugar
- Black pepper, to taste
- 100g Tomato sauce
- 150g Penne pasta
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Tomatoes and Sausage
- Add cherry tomatoes and sausage slices, cooking for another 3 minutes on medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Make the Sauce
- Pour in the whipping cream, salt, sugar, black pepper, and tomato sauce. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for 3 minutes.
- Prepare the Pasta
- In a separate saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook on medium heat for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well. Cook for another 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Bake to Perfection
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese and bake at 220°C (430°F) for 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy cheese pasta!
Food Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream for the best texture.
- Freeze: Freeze in an oven-safe dish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and bake at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
Pro Tips
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Meat Alternatives: Swap sausage for chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Extra Creaminess: Stir in a little cream cheese for a richer texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While penne works great, you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then mix and bake when ready to serve. - How do I prevent my cheese from becoming too greasy?
Use fresh mozzarella instead of pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free penne. - What can I serve with this pasta?
A fresh green salad and garlic bread complement this dish perfectly!
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be enjoyable, and this Creamy Cheese Pasta recipe is all about bringing joy to your kitchen.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this dish never disappoints.
Give it a try and share your experience – happy cooking! 🍝