Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe

This Cheese Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, this dish is perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving something warm and hearty. With layers of pasta coated in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with a bubbly, crispy cheese crust, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Cheese Pasta Bake
2. Instructions for Cheese Pasta Bake
3. Tips & Notes
4. Recipe Variations & Substitutions
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients for Cheese Pasta Bake

• 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions for Cheese Pasta Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
• Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
• Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese over the top.
• Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the cheese for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Pasta

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
• Let the pasta bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Notes

• Cheese Blend: Feel free to mix up the cheese blend—Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even Gouda would work great in this dish.
• Pasta Choice: You can use different types of pasta, such as fusilli, cavatappi, or ziti, depending on what you have on hand.
• Creamy Texture: If you prefer a creamier texture, add a bit more heavy cream to the cheese sauce.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetable Add-In: Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or ground sausage to make this a more filling meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I store Cheese Pasta Bake?

Store the pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

2. Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Yes, you can freeze it! Let the baked pasta cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. What can I serve with Cheese Pasta Bake?

Serve this pasta bake with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

This Cheese Pasta Bake is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy layers and golden crust, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you make it for a weeknight meal or a family gathering, it’s an easy, satisfying recipe that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the rich flavors in every bite!

Happy cooking, and enjoy this cheesy, comforting pasta bake!