Are you tired of complicated recipes that require a culinary degree? Get ready to discover the most deliciously simple cheese sauce pasta that will transform your weeknight dinner from boring to extraordinary! In just 15 minutes, you'll create a creamy, mouthwatering dish that's so easy, even kitchen novices can become instant cooking heroes. This recipe is your ticket to comfort food bliss – no fancy techniques, no expensive ingredients, just pure cheesy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat until it's completely liquid and slightly bubbling.
- Slowly pour milk into the melted butter, stirring constantly to create a smooth base for the sauce.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese to the milk and butter mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case you need to adjust sauce consistency.
- Return drained pasta to the pot and pour the warm cheese sauce over it. Gently stir to coat all pasta evenly.
- If sauce seems too thick, add a small splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Serve immediately while the cheese sauce is hot and creamy. Optional: Garnish with additional black pepper or chopped herbs if desired.
Tips
- Cheese Selection Matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the smoothest, most melty sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Melt your butter and cheese over medium-low heat to prevent separation and ensure a silky-smooth sauce.
- Pasta Water is Your Secret Weapon: Always reserve a little pasta water. Its starchy magic can help you adjust sauce consistency and help the sauce cling to the pasta perfectly.
- Stir Continuously: When adding cheese to the sauce, keep stirring to prevent burning and ensure even melting.
- Serve Immediately: Cheese sauce is best enjoyed hot and fresh. The longer it sits, the more it will thicken and potentially become less creamy.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add garlic powder, a dash of mustard, or even some crispy bacon bits to elevate this basic recipe to gourmet levels!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 65mg
