Comfort food at its finest – there’s nothing quite like a warm, gooey plate of creamy cheesy pasta to lift your spirits. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or looking to mix things up with some bold flavors, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite creamy cheesy pasta recipes that are sure to become new staples in your kitchen.
From ultimate three-cheese mac and cheese to spicy jalapeño cheddar pasta bake, and from truffle oil and gouda fettuccine to buffalo chicken mac and cheese, these mouthwatering dishes are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. With a mix of classic comfort foods and more adventurous flavors, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So grab a fork and get ready to indulge in the creamiest, cheesiest pasta recipes around!
Ultimate Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese
Ultimate Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
A rich, creamy macaroni dish loaded with three artisanal cheeses – sharp cheddar, smooth gouda, and nutty parmesan. This Ultimate Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese is sure to satisfy any comfort food craving.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup shredded)
- Smoked gouda cheese (1/2 cup shredded)
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup grated)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in milk and stir until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, gouda, and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time:
45-50 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Creamy Pasta
Transform your pasta dish with a rich and creamy sauce infused with the flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. This comforting recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic in 2 tbsp olive oil until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Pasta Bake
This creamy pasta bake combines the spicy kick of jalapeños with the richness of cheddar cheese, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced jalapeños, onion, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, cheddar cheese, and cream in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Truffle Oil and Gouda Fettuccine
A rich and decadent pasta dish that combines the earthy flavors of truffle oil with the creaminess of Gouda cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Gouda cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add truffle oil and stir to combine.
3. Add grated Gouda cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth, adding reserved pasta cooking water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Add cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to combine with truffle oil and Gouda sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Blue Cheese Penne
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the pungent taste of blue cheese, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of penne pasta. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the blue cheese crumbles and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked penne pasta to the blue cheese mixture and toss to combine.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
6. Serve immediately, topped with additional blue cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Four-Cheese Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy take on classic stuffed shells. This recipe combines the comfort of ricotta and mozzarella with the sophistication of Parmesan and Gruyère.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, Gruyère cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
4. Beat in the egg and season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top of the shells.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Brie and Mushroom Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of France with this indulgent pasta dish featuring creamy brie cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and a hint of garlic. This comforting recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated brie cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender.
3. Add heavy cream and stir until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in grated brie cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
A creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a spicy kick from buffalo chicken, perfect for a comfort food twist.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add buffalo wing sauce and stir until combined.
4. Add cooked macaroni, chicken breast, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese to the saucepan. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Pesto and Mozzarella Tortellini
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and creamy dish that combines the richness of mozzarella cheese and the brightness of pesto. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add pesto sauce and stir until smooth.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto mixture.
4. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Gouda and Spinach Lasagna
Elevate your lasagna game with this creamy, cheesy, and spinach-packed twist on the classic dish. Smoked Gouda adds a rich, velvety texture that complements the tender spinach perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups grated smoked Gouda cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté spinach with garlic until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, combine smoked Gouda, mozzarella, and parsley.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of noodles, then the cheese mixture, and finally the spinach mixture. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheddar and Broccoli Pasta Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the freshness of broccoli, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli in butter until tender. Add thyme and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine milk and cheddar cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and creamy.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo
This creamy pasta dish combines the tanginess of goat cheese with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in crumbled goat cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add chopped parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Combine cooked orzo pasta with the goat cheese mixture. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pepper Jack and Corn Rigatoni
This creamy pasta dish combines the savory flavors of pepper jack cheese with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a satisfying rigatoni package.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rigatoni
– 2 cups mixed corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup grated pepper jack cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mixed corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Stir in grated pepper jack cheese until melted and well combined with the corn mixture.
6. Combine cooked rigatoni with the corn-pepper jack mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ricotta and Lemon Zest Linguine
This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon zest, all wrapped up in a light and refreshing pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth.
3. Drain cooked linguine and add it to the ricotta mixture. Toss until pasta is well coated.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gruyère and Caramelized Onion Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines sweet caramelized onions with nutty Gruyère cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner. With only a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying this comforting meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and white wine (if using) to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Stir in Gruyère cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce; toss to coat.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
White Cheddar and Cauliflower Alfredo
Transform ordinary pasta into a rich and creamy delight with this White Cheddar and Cauliflower Alfredo recipe. A perfect blend of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon butter and season with salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in white cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked fettuccine, roasted cauliflower, and Parmesan cheese in a serving dish. Pour White Cheddar sauce over the top.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Havarti and Dill Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the creamy flavor of Havarti cheese with the bright, herbal taste of fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup Havarti cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine crumbled Havarti cheese, chopped fresh dill, olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fontina and Sausage Baked Ziti
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of savory sausage and nutty fontina cheese with classic baked ziti. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup fontina cheese, shredded
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces ziti pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, combine crushed tomatoes, fontina cheese, and oregano. Simmer over low heat while pasta cooks.
5. Cook ziti according to package instructions. Drain and combine with tomato mixture.
6. Combine cooked sausage mixture with ziti; transfer to a baking dish.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Provolone and Roasted Garlic Spaghetti
A flavorful and comforting pasta dish that combines the richness of provolone cheese with the pungency of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is tender and caramelized.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
5. In a large skillet, combine the roasted garlic and shredded provolone cheese. Stir over medium heat until the cheese is melted and well combined with the garlic.
6. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic-provolone mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a flavorful boost from the addition of Mexican street corn ingredients. The result is a rich, cheesy pasta dish with a hint of spice and a pop of freshness.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 ear of corn, husked and silked, grilled or boiled until tender
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese with heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Add cooked macaroni and stir until coated with cheese mixture.
6. Add grilled or boiled corn kernels to the macaroni mixture.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with butter.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
9. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these 20 creamy cheesy pasta recipes! From classic mac and cheese to innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Discover rich and indulgent dishes like Ultimate Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese, Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Pasta Bake, and Truffle Oil and Gouda Fettuccine. Or try new combinations like Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese or Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic casserole or a fresh pasta salad, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling cozy and content.
