This creamy, cheesy casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and satisfying without being too fancy. It combines tender pasta, melted cheese, and a smooth, savory sauce that melts in your mouth. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this dish delivers all the warmth and goodness you crave from a homemade classic.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, macaroni, or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (preferably whole milk)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional for depth)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken or vegetables (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium baking dish. Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until smooth and bubbly. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Combine the cooked pasta and optional chicken or vegetables with the sauce, then pour everything into the baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
