Ultimate Cheddar Pasta Bake Delight
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of our Ultimate Cheddar Pasta Bake Delight. This scrumptious dish features perfectly cooked rotini or penne pasta enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and parmesan. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a comforting meal ideal for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. With a beautiful blend of spices and a delightful crusty top, this pasta bake will quickly become a favorite in your household. Share it with friends and family for a cheesy pasta experience that’s truly unforgettable!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter or Margarine
2 tablespoons (melted)
All-Purpose Flour
1/4 cup (sifted)
Milk
3 cups (whole or 2%)
Shredded Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese
4 cups (shredded)
Shredded Parmesan Cheese
3/4 cup, divided (shredded)
Salt
3/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Ground Red Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Rotini or Penne Pasta
16 ounces (cooked and drained)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 13x9-inch baking dish.
2
In a Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter or margarine. Once melted, gradually add the flour, whisking continuously to create a smooth roux.
3
Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 3-5 minutes.
4
Reduce the heat to low, and add the shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper. Stir until the cheese completely melts and the sauce is creamy.
5
Fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring each piece is well coated with the cheese sauce.
6
Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese on top.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is called the Ultimate Cheddar Pasta Bake Delight.
How many servings does this pasta bake provide?
This recipe makes 8 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
What size baking dish is required?
A 13x9-inch baking dish is recommended.
How should I prepare the baking dish?
You should lightly grease the baking dish before adding the pasta.
What types of pasta work best for this recipe?
Rotini or penne pasta are the best choices for this bake.
How much pasta do I need?
You will need 16 ounces of cooked and drained pasta.
What is the first step in making the cheese sauce?
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
How do I make the roux for the sauce?
Gradually whisk 1/4 cup of sifted all-purpose flour into the melted butter until smooth.
How much milk is used in the sauce?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of milk.
What kind of milk should I use?
Whole or 2% milk is recommended for the best results.
How long does it take for the milk mixture to thicken?
It typically takes about 3-5 minutes of whisking until it begins to bubble and thicken.
What type of cheddar cheese is used?
The recipe uses 4 cups of shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese.
How much parmesan cheese goes into the sauce?
1/4 cup of shredded parmesan is added directly into the cheese sauce.
What seasonings are added to the cheese sauce?
The sauce is seasoned with salt, black pepper, and ground red pepper.
How much salt is recommended?
3/4 teaspoon of salt is suggested, or you can add it to taste.
How much black pepper should I use?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper.
Does this dish have a spicy kick?
It includes 1/2 teaspoon of ground red pepper for a subtle spice.
How do I combine the pasta and the sauce?
Fold the cooked pasta into the Dutch oven until every piece is well coated with sauce.
What is used as the topping for the bake?
The remaining 1/2 cup of shredded parmesan cheese is sprinkled on top.
How long does the pasta bake in the oven?
It should bake for 25-30 minutes.
How can I tell when the dish is done?
The top should be golden brown and the cheese should be bubbly.
Should I serve the pasta bake immediately?
It is best to allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let the sauce set.
What is the total amount of parmesan cheese needed?
You will need 3/4 cup of shredded parmesan cheese in total.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, either butter or margarine can be used for the roux.
Is the flour used in this recipe sifted?
Yes, the recipe specifies 1/4 cup of sifted all-purpose flour.
What category of food does this recipe fall into?
This is considered a comfort food, specifically a pasta bake or casserole.
Is this recipe good for large groups?
Yes, it serves 8 and is ideal for gatherings or family dinners.
What texture can I expect from the top of the dish?
The bake features a delightful crusty top thanks to the parmesan cheese.
What is the overall flavor profile of this dish?
It is a rich, creamy, and cheesy dish with a savory and slightly spicy finish.