There’s something magical about a dish that comes together in just one pan—especially when that dish is a creamy, cheesy pasta that wraps you in warmth like a well-loved blanket. I first stumbled upon this recipe on a particularly blustery evening when the wind howled outside, and all I wanted was something simple, comforting, and utterly indulgent. Enter: this One-Pan White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Delight. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug, with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or need a quick crowd-pleaser, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

The Ingredients That Make It Shine

Every great dish starts with great ingredients, and this pasta is no exception. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta – I prefer cavatappi or penne for their ability to hold onto the creamy sauce, but any short pasta will do.
• White cheddar cheese – Sharp and tangy, it brings depth to the dish. If you can find an aged white cheddar, even better!
• Mozzarella – For that irresistible stretchy, melty goodness. Freshly shredded works best—skip the pre-shredded kind, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Heavy cream – The base of our luscious sauce. For a lighter version, half-and-half works, but the richness of heavy cream is worth it.
• Garlic – Because what’s comfort food without a little garlicky warmth? Freshly minced is ideal.
• Chicken broth – Adds savory depth. Vegetable broth works too if you’re keeping it vegetarian.
• Butter – Just a touch to sauté the garlic and build flavor.
• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg – The nutmeg is my secret weapon—it adds a subtle warmth that elevates the cheese.

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step

Now, the fun part—bringing it all together in one pan! Here’s how to make magic happen:

1. Sauté the garlic. Melt the butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Don’t let it brown, or it’ll turn bitter.
2. Toast the pasta. Add the dry pasta to the pan and stir it around for a minute or two. This toasts the noodles slightly, giving them a nutty depth that’s just divine.
3. Simmer in broth. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then season with salt, pepper, and that pinch of nutmeg. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it cook for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Cheese, please! Off the heat, stir in the shredded white cheddar and mozzarella until melted and gloriously creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of warm broth or cream will loosen it up.

Tip: For extra indulgence, pop the skillet under the broiler for a minute or two to get a golden, bubbly top. Just keep an eye on it—cheese can go from perfect to charred in seconds!

There’s something magical about a one-pan pasta dish that brings both comfort and convenience to the table. This White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Delight is no exception—creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. But before you dive in, let’s talk about how to make it even better with a few pro tips and variations.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Cheese Swap: If you don’t have white cheddar, try sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even Gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed shrimp to make this dish heartier.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrients.
• Creamier Texture: For an even silkier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.

What to Serve With It

This pasta is rich and indulgent, so pairing it with something light and fresh balances the meal perfectly. Here are a few ideas:

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette for soaking up the cheesy sauce
• Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli for a veggie side

Storage & Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat:

• Stovetop: Warm it gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to prevent the cheese from separating.

Note: The pasta may thicken as it cools, but a little extra liquid will bring it back to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta can vary in texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

What if my sauce is too thick?
Simply stir in a little extra milk, broth, or pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I freeze this pasta?
While possible, dairy-based sauces can sometimes separate when frozen and reheated. If you do freeze it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Final Thoughts

This White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Delight is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So grab your pan, stir in some love, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite.