cheese pasta sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cheese pasta sauce recipe

I have been making this cheese pasta sauce for years and it is a staple in our home. My kids love it because it is creamy and cheesy without being too heavy. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner that everyone will eat without complaints. The sauce comes together in about the same time it takes to boil pasta so it is a real time saver.

This recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your fridge. I use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for the best flavor and melt. The key is to shred the cheese yourself instead of buying pre shredded bags. Pre shredded cheese has anti caking agents that stop it from melting smoothly.

Freshly shredded cheese gives you that silky creamy texture that makes this sauce so good. I love that this sauce is versatile. You can add cooked ground beef or sausage to make it a heartier meal. Or you can toss in some steamed broccoli or peas for extra veggies.

My family likes it best with elbow macaroni but it works with any pasta shape. The sauce also freezes well so I often make a double batch and save half for later. This cheese pasta sauce is also a good source of calcium and protein from the cheese and milk. It is a filling meal that keeps my kids satisfied until bedtime.

I feel good serving it because I know exactly what is in it. No mystery ingredients or preservatives. Just real cheese, milk, and a little butter and flour to thicken it up.

Creamy Homemade Cheese Pasta Sauce

Creamy Homemade Cheese Pasta Sauce

4.5 from 701 votes

This cheese pasta sauce is smooth, creamy, and full of flavor. It comes together in minutes and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2Once the butter is fully melted and bubbling, add the flour.
3Whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color and smells nutty.
4Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously.
5Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
6Continue cooking over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
7Reduce the heat to low.
8Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese a handful at a time, stirring gently with a wooden spoon until each addition is fully melted before adding more.
9The sauce should be smooth and creamy.
10Stir in the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
11Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
12If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
13Serve immediately over cooked pasta.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Grater

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 14g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For best results, shred the cheese from a block. Pre shredded cheese does not melt as smoothly. You can substitute low fat milk but the sauce will be less creamy. Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth of flavor.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Homemade Cheese Pasta Sauce Works

To store leftover cheese pasta sauce, let it cool completely and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it on the stovetop over low heat and add a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.

You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave at 50 percent power for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. This sauce is perfect for family gatherings because it is easy to double and everyone loves it.

Serve it over pasta for a simple meal or use it as a base for baked mac and cheese. You can also spoon it over steamed broccoli or pour it over baked potatoes for a comforting side dish.

No matter how you serve it, this cheese pasta sauce is always a hit with kids and adults alike.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Cheese Pasta Sauce

1. Can I use pre shredded cheese for this sauce?

I do not recommend it. Pre shredded cheese is coated with anti caking agents like cellulose or starch. These prevent the cheese from melting smoothly and can give the sauce a grainy texture. For the creamiest sauce, always shred your own cheese from a block.

2. Why did my cheese sauce turn out lumpy?

Lumpy sauce usually happens when the heat is too high or when you add the cheese too quickly. Always cook the butter and flour mixture over medium heat and add the milk slowly while whisking. When adding cheese, reduce the heat to low and add it in small batches, stirring until each batch is fully melted.

3. Can I make this cheese pasta sauce ahead of time?

Yes you can make the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Let it cool completely then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you are ready to use it, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat. You may need to add a splash of milk to bring back the creamy consistency.

4. What kind of pasta goes best with this sauce?

This sauce works well with any pasta shape. I like using elbow macaroni, shells, or rotini because they hold the sauce nicely. For a classic mac and cheese, elbow macaroni is the way to go. You can also use this sauce over baked potatoes or steamed vegetables.

5. Can I freeze this cheese sauce?

Yes this sauce freezes well. Let it cool completely then transfer it to a freezer safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. Stir in a little milk if the sauce seems thick after thawing.

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