Description
Sumptuous Italian Cheese Pasta combines rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with creamy, indulgent comfort. Melted cheeses and classic ingredients create a delightful meal you’ll savor with pure culinary pleasure.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 300 grams (10.5 ounces) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Dairy and Cream:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Cook pasta until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a spacious skillet over medium heat, releasing a golden sheen.
- Introduce minced garlic to the butter, stirring continuously until aromatic and lightly golden, about 30-45 seconds.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, allowing it to heat gently without reaching a rapid boil.
- Gradually incorporate Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, whisking consistently to create a silky, uniform sauce.
- Transfer cooked pasta directly into the cheese mixture, gently folding to ensure complete coating.
- If sauce appears thick, introduce reserved pasta water incrementally to achieve a luxurious, creamy consistency.
- Sprinkle Italian herbs, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, stirring to distribute flavors evenly.
- Plate the pasta immediately, garnishing with finely chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
- Serve piping hot, ensuring the cheese remains smooth and inviting.
Notes
- Always salt pasta water generously to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Reserve pasta water before draining, as the starchy liquid helps create a silky, cohesive sauce.
- Grate fresh Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor and smoother melting compared to pre-packaged options.
- Use low-medium heat when incorporating cream and cheese to prevent sauce from breaking or becoming grainy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 678 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 45 g
- Saturated Fat: 27 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg