Cheddar Cheesy Pasta Bake

Indulge in comfort food heaven with this irresistibly creamy Cheddar Cheesy Pasta Bake! This recipe features perfectly cooked pasta coated in a velvety sauce made with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese, enhanced by a touch of dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and garlic powder for a flavor-packed punch. Topped with golden, crispy panko breadcrumbs and a final sprinkle of melted cheddar, this baked pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Quick to prepare with a prep time of just 15 minutes, it bakes to bubbly perfection in a mere 30 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm for the ultimate cheesy delight. Whether you're looking for easy weeknight comfort or a reliable potluck showstopper, this pasta bake has all the indulgent elements you crave!

Nutriscore Rating: 52/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 cup additional cheddar cheese for topping
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2

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

Step 3

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.

Step 4

Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened and smooth.

Step 5

Reduce heat to low and stir in 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and cream cheese until fully melted and combined.

Step 6

Stir in the dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well to evenly coat.

Step 8

Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.

Step 9

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle the mixture over the pasta. Follow with an even layer of the additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar.

Step 10

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Step 11

Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.

Step 12

Serve warm and enjoy your Cheddar Cheesy Pasta Bake!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1939.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4630.3

Total Fat 317.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 183.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.1g
Cholesterol 894.6mg	0%
Sodium 7985.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 255.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.4g	0%
Total Sugars 46.6g
Protein 210.1g	0%

Vitamin D 419.7IU	0%
Calcium 5234.8mg	0%
Iron 10.3mg	0%
Potassium 2128.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.5%

Protein: 17.8%

Carbs: 21.6%