If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and ridiculously comforting, this Italian Cheese Pasta is your answer. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy date night at home, or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe checks all the boxes.
It’s quick, easy to make, and absolutely packed with rich, cheesy flavor. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up something that tastes like it came straight from a little trattoria in Italy. So, grab your favorite pasta and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy masterpiece:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta – Spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you love works perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – For a rich, velvety base.
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream – This is the secret to that creamy, luscious sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For a melty, stretchy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty kick to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese – Boosts the cheesy flavor with a touch of sharpness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For a hint of spice.
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped – Optional, for garnish.
- 1 cup reserved pasta water – To thin out the sauce as needed.
How to Make Italian Cheese Pasta
This recipe is incredibly simple and comes together in just a few steps. Follow along, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to season the water—this is crucial for flavorful pasta!
- Add 12 oz pasta to the boiling water and cook until al dente. This usually means cooking the pasta for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid will help you adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Start the Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add 3 cloves of finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic; you want it fragrant, not browned.
- Slowly pour in 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the cream to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
- Reduce the heat to low and start adding the cheeses. Begin with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, stirring until it melts and combines with the cream.
- Next, add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan and 1/4 cup of grated Romano. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well blended.
- Season the sauce with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Remember, the cheese adds saltiness, so taste before adding more.
Step 4: Adjust the Consistency
- If the sauce feels too thick, slowly stir in the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time. This starchy water is perfect for loosening the sauce while keeping it silky and flavorful.
- You might not need the full cup of pasta water, so add it gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated. Use tongs or a large spoon to ensure every noodle gets its fair share of cheesy goodness.
- Let the pasta sit in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Plate the pasta immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped basil or parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Italian Cheese Pasta
- Choose the right pasta: Spaghetti and rigatoni are great options because they hold the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite.
- Grate your own cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For the best results, grate your cheeses fresh.
- Customize the flavors: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or mix in sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes.
- Don’t skimp on salt: Properly salting your pasta water is key to a flavorful dish.
Variations to Try
This Italian Cheese Pasta is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu for a heartier meal.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Go veggie-heavy: Incorporate roasted broccoli, sautéed zucchini, or caramelized onions for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use a different cheese blend: Try asiago, fontina, or even gouda for a unique twist on the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Incredibly comforting: Few things are as satisfying as a bowl of cheesy pasta.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste or use up ingredients you already have.
FAQs About Italian Cheese Pasta
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. If you’re using milk, consider adding a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce.
What can I substitute for Romano cheese?
Pecorino Romano or an extra 1/4 cup of Parmesan works well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Cheese Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food. With its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. What’s even better is how adaptable it is—you can dress it up or keep it simple, depending on your mood. So grab a fork and dig in—you’ve earned it!
Easy Italian Cheese Pasta: A Cozy, Comforting Dish for Any Day
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340 g pasta – Spaghetti, penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you love works perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – For a rich velvety base.
- 3 cloves garlic finely chopped – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream – This is the secret to that creamy luscious sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For a melty stretchy texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty nutty kick to the sauce.
- ¼ cup grated Romano cheese – Boosts the cheesy flavor with a touch of sharpness.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – For a hint of spice.
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley chopped – Optional, for garnish.
- 1 cup reserved pasta water – To thin out the sauce as needed.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to season the water—this is crucial for flavorful pasta!
- Add 12 oz pasta to the boiling water and cook until al dente. This usually means cooking the pasta for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid will help you adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Start the Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add 3 cloves of finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic; you want it fragrant, not browned.
- Slowly pour in 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the cream to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
- Reduce the heat to low and start adding the cheeses. Begin with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, stirring until it melts and combines with the cream.
- Next, add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan and 1/4 cup of grated Romano. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well blended.
- Season the sauce with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Remember, the cheese adds saltiness, so taste before adding more.
Step 4: Adjust the Consistency
- If the sauce feels too thick, slowly stir in the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time. This starchy water is perfect for loosening the sauce while keeping it silky and flavorful.
- You might not need the full cup of pasta water, so add it gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated. Use tongs or a large spoon to ensure every noodle gets its fair share of cheesy goodness.
- Let the pasta sit in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Plate the pasta immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped basil or parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal.