One-Pan White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Delight

Creamy, cheesy, and ready in just 20 minutes, this One-Pan White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with minimal cleanup! Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something indulgent but effortless.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One pan = easy cleanup – No boiling pasta separately!
Extra creamy & cheesy – Double the cheese, double the joy
Ready in 20 minutes – Faster than takeout
Kid-approved – Picky eaters go crazy for it

Ingredients & Substitutions

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or shells work best)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Cheese Goodness

  • 1 cup shredded white cheddar
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 cup cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
  • ½ cup frozen peas (add with pasta)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (stir in at the end)
  • Crushed red pepper (for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. In a large skillet, combine uncooked pasta, broth, cream, garlic, and spices.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
  3. Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid reduces.

2. Add the Cheese

  1. Remove from heat and stir in white cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
  2. If using spinach or peas, stir them in now.

3. Finish & Serve

✔ Taste and adjust salt/pepper.
✔ Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
✔ Serve immediately—it thickens as it cools!

Pro Tips

🧀 Cheese Hack – Shred your own cheese for better meltability.
🍝 Pasta Choice – Short shapes like penne work best.
🔥 Extra Creamy – Add a splash of milk if too thick.

Variations

🍗 Chicken Alfredo Pasta – Add grilled chicken.
🍄 Mushroom Lovers – Sauté mushrooms before adding liquid.
🌶 Spicy Version – Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but sauce will be thinner—simmer longer to thicken.

How do I store leftovers?

Fridge for 3 days (reheat with a splash of milk).

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Use GF pasta and check broth labels.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta is creamy, dreamy, and ridiculously easy—the kind of meal you’ll make again and again.

Warning: Highly addictive! 🧀🔥

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