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Creamy Italian Three-Cheese Pasta

Decadent Creamy Italian Three-Cheese Pasta for Cozy Nights

This Creamy Italian Three-Cheese Pasta is a luscious dish that transforms ordinary dinners into unforgettable events, perfect for cozy nights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz pasta Choose penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle for the best texture.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoon unsalted butter Adds richness to your creamy sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Enhances flavor and helps in sautéing.
  • 3 cloves garlic finely minced, infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
  • 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour Thickens the sauce smoothly.
  • 2 cups whole milk warmed, ensures a creamy texture without curdling.
  • 1 cup heavy cream warmed, for that extra indulgence!
  • ½ cup reserved pasta cooking water optional, use if the sauce needs thinning.
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds that cheesy, savory depth.
  • 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese low-moisture, melts beautifully for creaminess.
  • ½ cup freshly crumbled or grated provolone cheese or fontina cheese, enhances flavor complexity.
For Seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt plus more for pasta water, essential for balancing flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of heat.
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a touch of gentle heat.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg optional, but classic in cream sauces, adds a warm, nutty aroma.
  • 2 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley brightens the dish with freshness.
  • 2 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil optional but recommended, an herby finish that complements the creaminess.
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan for topping for that perfect finishing touch.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for finishing, optional, drizzle for an extra layer of flavor.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • skillet
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Fill a large pot with water, adding a generous 1–2 tablespoons of salt for flavor, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. In a small saucepan or a microwave-safe container, gently warm the whole milk and heavy cream until just warm for about 90 seconds in the microwave.
  3. In a large, deep skillet, melt unsalted butter with extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat until the butter foams up. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds.
  4. Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the garlic mixture in the skillet and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
  5. Lower the heat and gradually pour in the warmed milk and cream mixture while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce for 3–5 minutes until it thickens.
  6. Once thickened, stir in fine sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional seasonings like red pepper flakes and ground nutmeg.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until fully melted. Repeat with the mozzarella cheese and finally mix in the provolone.
  8. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the cheese sauce and toss to ensure each piece is well-coated. If it appears too thick, add reserved pasta water.
  9. Stir in chopped fresh parsley and basil. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.
  10. Spoon the creamy pasta into a serving bowl or plates, sprinkle with remaining grated Parmesan cheese, and serve while hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage up to 3 months, and reheat with added milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.

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