Pasta dishes are simple comfort food that can satisfy any craving. But what can make a bowl of pasta even more delightful? A creamy and flavorful cheese sauce! This easy pasta cheese sauce recipe will elevate your pasta dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s so quick and easy to make, you’ll be wondering why you never tried it before.
This cheese sauce is not only easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can use it to top your favorite pasta, or you can use it as a dip for vegetables or breadsticks. It’s also a great way to use up leftover cheese, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different types and flavors.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! You’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying bowl of pasta in no time.
Ingredients and Equipments
**Ingredients:**
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided
- 8 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
**Equipments:**
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Microplane grater (for Parmesan cheese)
How To Make
1. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter has melted, add the flour and whisk to combine.
3. Cook the flour and butter mixture for 1 minute, or until it becomes a light golden brown.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, or until it has thickened.
6. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, dry mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder.
7. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Tips or Possible Variation
**Tips:**
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a bit of acidity.
- If the sauce is too thick, add more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
**Possible Variations:**
- Add cooked vegetables to the sauce, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or peas.
- Stir in cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
- Top the pasta with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Now that you have this easy pasta cheese sauce recipe in your arsenal, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and comforting meal in no time. So next time you’re craving a hearty and satisfying dish, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!