Comfort and Cream
Indulge in the ultimate cozy meal with "Comfort and Cream," a rich and creamy pasta dish that brings warmth to every bite. Featuring tender shells or fusilli coated in a velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, parmesan, and a luscious blend of whole milk and heavy cream, this recipe is the perfect balance of decadence and simplicity. The addition of garlic powder and a hint of thyme elevates the flavors, while an optional golden breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch. Ready in just 30 minutes, "Comfort and Cream" is an easy comfort food dish ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete, satisfying feast. Perfect for fans of mac and cheese, creamy pasta, or indulgent comfort food recipes!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 250 grams pasta (e.g., shells or fusilli)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for breadcrumbs)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. The mixture should be golden and free of lumps.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheeses, a handful at a time, until fully melted and smooth.
Add the garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
Optional: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Serve warm and enjoy your Comfort and Cream!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3458 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 257.5 g | 330% | |
| Saturated Fat | 152.0 g | 760% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 743 mg | 248% | |
| Sodium | 4558 mg | 198% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 158.0 g | 57% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.2 g | 26% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.3 g | ||
| Protein | 126.3 g | 253% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.6 mcg | 33% | |
| Calcium | 3154 mg | 243% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 1216 mg | 26% | |
*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.
