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Cheese Pasta Sauce

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Cheese Pasta Sauce is a rich and creamy homemade sauce made with cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. This velvety sauce coats pasta beautifully and creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or baked pasta dishes.

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 12 ounces cooked pasta
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  3. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously.
  4. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken.
  5. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Reduce the heat to low.
  7. Add the cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until melted.
  8. Stir in the mozzarella cheese until smooth.
  9. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until fully incorporated.
  10. Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy and velvety.
  11. Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  12. Garnish with parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
  13. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Use Gruyère, Fontina, Gouda, or white cheddar for different flavor variations.
  • Add steamed broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra vegetables.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooled sauce for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore a creamy consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cheese-pasta-sauce/