This Four Cheese Pasta is a creamy and cheesy delight! Packed with a mix of your favorite cheeses, it’s perfect for cheese lovers. The pasta is cozy and comforting, like a big warm hug!
You can never have too much cheese, right? I love how I can make this dish in just a few steps. While it cooks, I can sneak in bites of cheese—it’s a win-win! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is my go-to shape for its great sauce-hugging ability. If you want a different texture, rotini or fettuccine work too. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose.
Cheeses: This recipe uses a mix of Parmesan, mozzarella, gorgonzola, and Asiago for a flavor bomb! If gorgonzola isn’t your style, try goat cheese for a milder flavor. If you can’t find Asiago, pecorino will add a nice sharpness.
Heavy Cream and Milk: The cream makes things rich, but if you want a lighter version, mix whole milk with a bit of cream or use half-and-half instead. It won’t be as indulgent, but still yummy!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to the dish. You can swap it for basil or even some spinach stirred in for nutrient boost before serving. It’s all about what flavors you enjoy!
How Do I Make the Cheese Sauce Smooth?
Making a creamy cheese sauce is all about slowly melting the cheese! Here are the steps to ensure your sauce is silky:
- Start with medium heat to gently melt the garlic-infused butter before adding cream.
- As you pour in the cream, stir continuously—this combines the flavors and prevents burning.
- Gradually add each cheese. Let it melt before adding the next. Stir slowly!
- If your sauce seems too thick, a splash of pasta water or a bit more milk can help loosen it.
With these tips in mind, you’ll create a deliciously creamy sauce every time!
Four Cheese Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or other pasta of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola or blue cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Asiago cheese (or substitute with pecorino)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh sage leaf (optional, for garnish)
- Extra grated Parmesan for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Four Cheese Pasta recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the cheese sauce, then a few minutes for the optional crispy topping. It’s a quick yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown as this can change the flavor.
3. Add Cream and Milk:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture just to a simmer—this means small bubbles will start to appear around the edges but it should not be boiling.
4. Melt the Cheeses:
Lower the heat, then gradually add the grated Parmesan, mozzarella, gorgonzola, and Asiago cheeses to the skillet. Stir continuously until all the cheese melts and you have a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cheese sauce and toss gently to coat all the pasta with that luscious cheese goodness.
6. Optional Crispy Topping:
If you’d like a crispy topping, transfer the pasta to an ovenproof dish. Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top and broil in the oven for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Serve:
Dish out the pasta into bowls. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley and an optional fresh sage leaf for extra flavor. Add a little extra mound of freshly grated Parmesan on top if you can’t resist!
8. Enjoy:
Dig in immediately while it’s creamy and hot. This Four Cheese Pasta is comfort food at its finest—enjoy every cheesy bite!
This dish is a delightful mixture of creamy, tangy, and sharp flavors with a satisfying cheesy crust on top. Perfect for a cozy dinner with loved ones!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice for this recipe, you can also use other pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or even fettuccine. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Gorgonzola?
If gorgonzola isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with any mild cheese like feta or goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor. Even a bit of cream cheese can work if you’re looking for something creamier!
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta?
Leftover Four Cheese Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if necessary to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian since it doesn’t contain meat. If you want to boost the nutrition, consider adding in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to make it even heartier!
