One-Pot Creamy Cheesy Pasta
This ultra creamy one-pot cheesy pasta is the ultimate quick and easy dinner recipe made in just 10 minutes using simple pantry ingredients. Cooked entirely in one pan with no draining required, this rich and comforting pasta is loaded with cheddar and mozzarella for a smooth, velvety sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, and family-friendly meals.
Servings 6
Ingredients
- 16 oz mini wheel pasta anellini
- ½ stick butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 –2 tablespoons garlic powder adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 –2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ –1 cup water add gradually as needed
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra cheese for serving (optional)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Chives
- Oregano
- Grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Melt the base: In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-low heat, melt the butter and olive oil together until smooth and fully combined.
- Add the pasta: Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pan and stir to coat it in the butter and oil.
- Add broth and seasoning: Pour in the beef broth, then stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until evenly combined.
- Add the cream: Stir in the heavy cream and mix well so the pasta is coated in the creamy base.
- Cook the pasta: Let the pasta cook on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking as it begins to soften and absorb the liquid.
- Adjust with water: Gradually add ½–1 cup water as needed while the pasta cooks until it becomes tender and the sauce reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper as needed once the pasta is fully cooked.
- Add the cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until completely melted and smooth.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot and creamy, topped with fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired.
Video
Notes
- For the creamiest texture, always add cheese off the heat to prevent clumping.
- Add liquid gradually while cooking to control the thickness of the sauce.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded varieties.
- If reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to life.
- You can easily add cooked chicken, ground beef, or sausage to make this a more filling meal.