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!
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Recipe Information
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)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened and smooth.
Reduce heat to low and stir in 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and cream cheese until fully melted and combined.
Stir in the dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well to evenly coat.
Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
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.
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy your Cheddar Cheesy Pasta Bake!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
724 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 49.1 g | 63% | |
| Saturated Fat | 28.8 g | 144% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 137 mg | 46% | |
| Sodium | 1201 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 41.6 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.8 g | ||
| Protein | 32.2 g | 64% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 791 mg | 61% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 321 mg | 7% | |
*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.
