Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta
The Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta is a decadent, comforting dish. It's made with four different kinds of cheese, including Parmesan, Romano, Mozzarella, and Ricotta. The cheeses are combined with fresh garlic, herbs, and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce. The result is a flavorful, creamy pasta dish that's sure to please any cheese lover. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Ricotta cheese
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups tomato sauce
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thick.
- Add the Parmesan, Romano, Mozzarella, and Ricotta cheeses and stir until melted.
- Add the garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta and stir to combine.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
The Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta is best served hot, with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with a simple side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp.Variation Ideas
To add a bit of crunch and texture to the dish, add diced bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce. To lighten the dish up a bit, replace the cream with low-fat milk or almond milk.Substitutions
For a vegan version, use vegan cheeses and replace the butter with olive oil. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour.Storage
The Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To preserve freshness and flavor, store the pasta in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.Tips
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
- For a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes.
- For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- For a tangy flavor, add a tablespoon of capers or a few drops of balsamic vinegar.
- For a crunchy topping, add a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs.
Notes
- This dish is best served hot, but leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
- For a lighter version, replace the cream with low-fat milk or almond milk.
- This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or grilled chicken.
- The Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.