When you’re craving a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s packed with flavor but doesn’t take hours to prepare, this Mozzarella Pasta Recipe with White Cheddar is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect combination of smooth, melted mozzarella and sharp, tangy white cheddar cheese—tossed together with tender pasta in a rich, herby tomato-based sauce. What could be better? This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have a ton of time to spend in the kitchen. The sauce is creamy, flavorful, and just the right amount of cheesy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adjusted to your tastes, whether you prefer adding some heat with red pepper flakes or keeping it simple and classic. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the first steps to get this mouthwatering pasta dish on the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil and Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be soft and aromatic, not crispy.

 

Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Milk

To the skillet, add the diced tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, and milk. Stir everything together to combine. This will form the base of your creamy tomato sauce, which will flavor the pasta beautifully as it cooks.

 

Cooking the Pasta and Creating the Creamy Sauce

Now that the base of your sauce is simmering, it’s time to add the pasta and let everything come together. The magic happens when the pasta absorbs the rich, flavorful broth and milk, transforming into a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish. This is where the comfort factor kicks in—creamy, cheesy pasta that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Step 3: Add the Pasta

Once the mixture is well combined, bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the uncooked pasta to the pan, stirring to make sure the pasta is evenly coated in the liquid. The broth and milk will create a creamy base that soaks into the pasta as it cooks, infusing it with flavor.

 

Step 4: Cover and Cook

Cover the skillet with a lid and let the pasta cook for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to let the pasta absorb most of the liquid and become tender. You want the pasta to be fully cooked, but not mushy, so keep an eye on it and check the texture periodically.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

Once the pasta is cooked through, reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded white cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the pan. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. This will turn your dish into a luscious, cheesy pasta that is irresistibly creamy.

 

Step 6: Stir in the Dried Herbs and Season

Once the cheese has fully melted and the sauce has become creamy, stir in the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). These herbs will infuse the sauce with additional flavor, bringing a lovely Italian-inspired aroma to the dish. Taste the pasta and season with salt and pepper to your liking. The herbs and seasoning should give the dish a well-rounded flavor with just the right amount of depth and kick.

 

Step 7: Remove from Heat

Once everything is well-mixed and the pasta is coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce, remove the skillet from the heat. This prevents overcooking and keeps the pasta from becoming too soft or the sauce from separating.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

For a fresh finishing touch, garnish the pasta with a few leaves of fresh basil. This adds a burst of color and a subtle hint of herbal flavor that complements the richness of the dish. Serve immediately while the pasta is still warm and creamy.

Tips and Variations to make it your own:

This Mozzarella Pasta with White Cheddar is creamy, cheesy, and comforting—perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to weekend indulgence. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize based on your mood, what you have in the fridge, or who you’re cooking for.

Below are tips to help you get the most out of your dish, plus some creative variations that turn this simple recipe into something uniquely yours.

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. For the creamiest texture, grate your mozzarella and white cheddar fresh.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook your pasta so it holds its shape and doesn’t get mushy when tossed in the cheese sauce.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Save about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. A splash can help loosen the sauce and create a silkier consistency.

• Add Cheese Gradually: Stir in the cheese a little at a time with the heat low to prevent clumping or graininess.

• Finish Under the Broiler: For a golden, bubbly top, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes.

Delicious Variations:

• Add Protein:

  • Stir in grilled chicken, bacon, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.

  • For a vegetarian protein boost, toss in white beans or sautéed mushrooms.

• Toss in Vegetables:

  • Add spinach, broccoli, zucchini, or peas for color, flavor, and added nutrition.

  • Roasted veggies like bell peppers, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes also pair beautifully.

• Spice It Up:

  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a spoonful of harissa for a little heat.

  • Stir in garlic powder, paprika, or dried oregano to boost flavor.

• Try a Different Pasta Shape:

  • This recipe works well with short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi—anything with ridges to hold onto the sauce.

• Switch Up the Cheeses:

  • Mix in or swap out cheeses like parmesan, fontina, gruyère, or monterey jack for a more complex flavor.

  • For a sharper bite, use extra sharp white cheddar.

• Make It Baked:

  • Combine the pasta with the sauce, pour into a casserole dish, top with more cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes.

• Go Creamy:

  • Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or ricotta for added richness.

 

Mozzarella Pasta Recipe with White Cheddar: FAQ and Final Thoughts

With the cheese melted, the flavors melded together, and the pasta cooked to perfection, this Mozzarella Pasta Recipe with White Cheddar is ready to be enjoyed! Whether you’re serving it as a comforting weeknight dinner or a side dish to a larger meal, this creamy, cheesy pasta will quickly become a favorite. But before you dive in, let’s answer a few common questions and wrap up with some final thoughts on why this recipe is so great.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, absolutely! While this recipe uses penne pasta, you can easily swap it for any pasta you prefer, such as rigatoni, fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as different pasta shapes may require slightly different cooking times.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Just make sure the pasta you choose cooks to your preferred texture and follow the package instructions for cooking time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

If you don’t have white cheddar or mozzarella, you can experiment with other types of cheese. Fontina, Gruyère, or Parmesan could work well, but keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess of the dish might change. You can also try a combination of cheeses to suit your taste! How can I make this recipe spicier? If you love a little heat, you can increase the red pepper flakes or even add a bit of hot sauce or jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjust it to your personal spice preference!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time. Prepare it as instructed, and once it’s cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to help loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Yes, this pasta can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk to bring back the creaminess.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Mozzarella Pasta Recipe with White Cheddar

This Mozzarella Pasta with White Cheddar is everything you want in a pasta dish—rich, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The combination of mozzarella and white cheddar creates a perfectly balanced sauce that’s indulgent but not overly heavy. Plus, the versatility of the recipe means you can tweak it to your liking, whether you prefer more cheese, a bit of spice, or a different pasta shape altogether. What really makes this recipe stand out is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a family, or guests, this pasta is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite! Print