This creamy Four Cheese Pasta is a cheesy dream come true! It’s packed with a blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, cheddar, and a sprinkle of blue cheese for a rich flavor.
You might want to keep some extra cheese handy because you’ll definitely want to sprinkle more on top! I love serving it with a side salad for a simple, hearty meal. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I prefer using cavatappi for its lovely shape that holds sauce well, but penne or fusilli also work nicely. If you want a gluten-free option, macaroni or gluten-free pasta is a great choice!
Cheeses: The blend here is essential. Sharp cheddar adds depth, while mozzarella gives that gooey texture. If you’re out of cream cheese, ricotta is a perfect substitute that still keeps things creamy. For a twist, try adding goat cheese for a tangy flavor!
Heavy cream & milk: If you’d like to lighten things up, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or even a non-dairy option like oat milk. The sauce will still be delicious, just a bit less rich!
How Do You Make Sure the Cheese Sauce is Smooth?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky, but here are my tips:
- Start by melting the butter and sautéing the garlic gently. Don’t rush! You want the garlic fragrant, not burnt.
- When adding the cream and milk, keep the heat on medium-low; you want it to be warm, not boiling, to prevent the cheeses from getting grainy.
- Gradually stir in the cheeses one at a time, mixing well until each addition is fully melted before adding the next. This helps create a creamy, clump-free sauce.
- If your sauce does get too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help thin it right out!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a velvety cheese sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta!
How to Make Four Cheese Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (cavatappi, penne, or your choice)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled cream cheese or ricotta (for creaminess)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Four Cheese Pasta will take about 30 minutes to prepare. That includes around 10 minutes for prepping and cooking the pasta, and about 20 minutes for making the cheesy sauce and bringing it all together. Fast, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, grab a large pot and fill it with water. Toss in a good pinch of salt and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but make sure to save a cup of the pasta water—trust me, you’ll want this later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In that same pot or a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add your minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, stirring often. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn because burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Create the Creamy Base:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir everything together until it’s nicely combined. Keep an eye on it and heat until the mixture starts to gently simmer. Remember, we don’t want it to boil—it’s not a race!
4. Add the Cheeses:
Lower the heat to low and start whisking in the cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese (or ricotta). Stir continuously until all the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes oh-so-smooth. If it seems a little thick, add some of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Season the Sauce:
Give your cheese sauce a taste! Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. This is the time to make it just right for your taste buds!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Gently add your drained pasta back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is completely coated in that creamy goodness. If it’s looking a bit too thick, mix in more of the reserved pasta water until you get the perfect consistency.
7. Plate Up!
Transfer the cheesy pasta to serving bowls, and here comes the best part—garnishing! Sprinkle a little smoked paprika and extra grated Parmesan on top, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It adds a nice pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s warm and fresh! This Four Cheese Pasta is incredibly comforting and perfect for any day of the week. Share with friends or keep it all for yourself—no judgment here!
Enjoy your delicious, creamy, four cheese delight! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi and penne are great choices, you can use any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli, shells, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure that the cheese you use fits your dietary preferences. Most store-bought cheeses are vegetarian, but check for rennet in the ingredients if you want to be sure.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce appears too thick.
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein?
Absolutely! You can add cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the pasta for extra nutrition. If you’re looking to add protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon are wonderful additions that pair beautifully with the cheese sauce.
