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
- In a large skillet, combine uncooked pasta, broth, cream, garlic, and spices.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
- Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid reduces.
2. Add the Cheese
- Remove from heat and stir in white cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- 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! 🧀🔥