Four Cheese Pasta

A elegant white ceramic bowl filled with creamy four cheese pasta, with melted cheese visibly coating each piece of penne, garnished with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper, set on a marble countertop with a glass of white wine and fresh herbs in the background

20 minutes
4 servings
Easy
VegetarianComfort FoodIndulgent
Four Cheese Pasta

Ingredients

12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
1 cup heavy cream
4 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
1/4 tsp white pepper
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup pasta cooking water

Nutrition Facts

Per 4 servings
Calories720 kcal
Protein28 g
Carbohydrates68 g
Fat38 g
Fiber3 g

* Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.

Instructions

1

Cook Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup pasta cooking water. Drain pasta in colander and set aside. The starchy pasta water will help bind the cheese sauce.

Pro Tip:

Don't rinse the pasta after draining - the starch helps the cheese sauce adhere better to the pasta.

2

Create Four Cheese Sauce

In the same large skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, cheddar, and Gorgonzola, one type at a time, whisking constantly until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and white pepper.

Pro Tip:

Keep heat low and add cheeses gradually to prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy.

3

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and toss gently to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Pro Tip:

Serve immediately as the cheese sauce will thicken as it cools. Have warmed bowls ready for the best presentation.