Cheesy White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Bake Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta bake that just melts in your mouth. This cheesy white cheddar mozzarella pasta bake is the perfect dish to cozy up with on chilly evenings. It’s creamy, flavorful, and loaded with gooey cheese that everyone will love.

this Recipe

Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this cheesy pasta bake is a crowd-pleaser. It’s straightforward to prepare and bakes up to golden perfection, making it an ideal go-to recipe for casual comfort food nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy with two kinds of cheese for extra flavor and gooeyness.
• Simple to prepare with pantry staples and minimal fuss.
• Perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping leftovers.
• Bakes to a delicious golden crust that adds a crunchy contrast.
• Comforting and satisfying for cold weather or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your cheesy white cheddar mozzarella pasta bake. You’ll find everything easy to source at your local grocery store.

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
• 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 480 per serving

How to Make Cheesy White Cheddar Mozzarella Pasta Bake: Perfect for Cozy Nights!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly until bubbly and light golden.
4. Slowly add the warmed milk to the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, white cheddar, and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat every piece with cheesy goodness. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this evenly over the top of the pasta bake to add a crunchy topping.
8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use whole milk for a creamier sauce; low-fat milk can make the sauce thinner.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente holds up better during baking.
• Mix the cheeses well into the sauce for a uniform melty texture.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
• Let the pasta bake rest before serving to help it set and slice neatly.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cheesy pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, cover tightly to prevent drying out.

For longer storage, freeze the baked pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of pasta for this bake?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works well, you can substitute penne, rotini, or shells. Just make sure the pasta is cooked al dente so it doesn’t become mushy during baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in the sauce. Also, make sure the breadcrumbs are gluten-free or omit them.

What can I add to make this pasta bake more nutritious?

You can add cooked vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrients. Adding cooked chicken or turkey also boosts protein content for a heartier meal.