Three Cheese Baked Pasta

I make this three cheese baked pasta when I want a rich, comforting dish that’s packed with gooey, melty goodness. It’s a simple combination of pasta and a creamy cheese blend, baked until golden and bubbly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how indulgent and satisfying this dish is. The combination of three cheeses creates a deep, creamy flavor with a perfectly cheesy texture. I also enjoy how easy it is to prepare ahead of time and bake when needed. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that works for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• pasta (penne, rigatoni, or similar)
• butter
• flour
• milk
• shredded cheddar cheese
• mozzarella cheese
• parmesan cheese
• garlic cloves (minced)
• salt
• black pepper
• dried Italian seasoning

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, I melt butter over medium heat and stir in the garlic until fragrant.

I whisk in the flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk while whisking until the sauce thickens.

I add the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth.

I season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

I combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and mix well.

I transfer everything to a baking dish and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

Servings and timing

I usually get about 4 to 5 servings from this recipe.
Prep time takes around 15 minutes.
Cooking time is about 25 minutes.
Total time comes to roughly 40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add cooked chicken or ground beef for extra protein. When I want a bit of crunch, I sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking. I also like adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a more balanced dish.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk to keep the pasta creamy and warm it in the oven or microwave.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses?

I can mix and match cheeses depending on what I have.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I assemble it in advance and bake when ready to serve.

How do I keep it from drying out?

I make sure the sauce is creamy and cover it while reheating if needed.

Can I freeze baked pasta?

I freeze it in portions for up to 2 months.

What pasta shape works best?

I like using short pasta shapes that hold the sauce well.

Conclusion

I find this three cheese baked pasta to be the ultimate comfort dish. It’s creamy, cheesy, and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe whenever I want something warm and satisfying.

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