Cheddar Pasta Toss
Indulge in the creamy, comfort-food bliss of Cheddar Pasta Toss, a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner perfect for the whole family. This recipe combines tender pasta—like penne, rotini, or fusilli—with a luscious homemade cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, whole milk, and a hint of garlic powder and paprika for just the right touch of warmth and flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish comes together effortlessly with a simple roux, bringing the ultimate velvety texture to every bite. Perfectly seasoned and topped with fresh parsley for a burst of color, this cheesy pasta dish is as versatile as it is delicious—serve it as a main course, a comforting side dish, or even a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution. Whether you're craving classic mac and cheese vibes or looking for a next-level pasta recipe, Cheddar Pasta Toss is sure to satisfy!
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Ingredients
- 8 ounces dry pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoons paprika
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
Step 3
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens.
Step 4
Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 5
Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 6
In a large mixing bowl or the pot used for cooking the pasta, combine the pasta with the cheese sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 7
Transfer the Cheddar Pasta Toss to a serving dish, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (935.3g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2067.3 |
| Total Fat 97.3g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 59.7g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g | |
| Cholesterol 300.6mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2467.0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 211.4g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 8.3g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 29.7g | |
| Protein 89.8g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 250.7IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1871.0mg | 0% |
| Iron 5.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1508.1mg | 0% |
Source of Calories