Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, cheese-filled delight? This Four Cheese Penne is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. It’s a harmony of flavors bringing together four different cheeses that melt together into a luscious sauce, creating a dish that’s simply irresistible.
Imagine twirling penne pasta coated in a rich blend of mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gorgonzola, all baked to perfection. This recipe not only delivers on taste but is also easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.
The Ultimate Four Cheese Penne Dish
Four Cheese Penne is a creamy and cheesy pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of four distinct cheeses with perfectly cooked penne.
This delightful combination creates a satisfying meal, perfect for those who truly appreciate cheese. Each bite offers a savory experience, from the initial taste of the creamy sauce to the rich topping that bakes into a golden crust.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
For a truly indulgent experience, selecting high-quality ingredients is essential. The stars of this dish are mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gorgonzola, each contributing its unique flavor profile.
These cheeses blend beautifully, creating a luscious sauce that coats the penne perfectly. Olive oil and garlic add depth, while fresh parsley brings a refreshing touch to the final presentation.
A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
This baked Four Cheese Penne makes for an excellent choice whether you are enjoying a cozy night in or entertaining guests. It’s easy to prepare and can be served directly from the oven, showcasing that gorgeous golden topping.
The inviting aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, making it difficult to resist diving in as soon as it’s out. This dish can easily become a staple in your recipe collection, sure to impress anyone who tries it.
The Baking Process
After cooking the penne to perfection, the real magic happens when you combine it with the cheese sauce. Sautéing garlic in olive oil enhances the flavor, creating a fragrant base.
Once the cheeses are melted into the creamy mixture, it’s time to add the penne. The next step involves transferring this cheesy goodness into a baking dish and letting it bake until the top is bubbly and golden.
A Garnish That Elevates
Before serving, a sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the cheese.
This simple garnish transforms the presentation, making the dish look more appealing and inviting. A fork resting beside it makes the dish even more enticing, urging you to take that first bite.
Nutritional Information
For those curious about the nutritional aspects, this Four Cheese Penne serves up a hearty offering. Each serving contains approximately 540 calories, with a good balance of protein and fats.
While it’s a comforting pasta dish, it’s good to enjoy in moderation, especially considering its indulgent ingredients. Perfect for a special night in or a gathering with friends, it’s a treat that satisfies those cheese cravings.
The Ultimate Four Cheese Penne Dish
This Four Cheese Penne is a creamy and cheesy pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of four different cheeses with perfectly cooked penne. The result is a comforting meal that’s delightful and satisfying, perfect for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gorgonzola cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine: Add the cooked penne to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy your decadent Four Cheese Penne hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 540kcal
- Fat: 36g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
