Delicious Cheese Stick Pasta Recipe: A Creamy and Savory Delight

If you’re craving something both comforting and indulgent, a delicious cheese stick pasta is the answer. This creamy, cheesy dish combines the best of pasta with gooey, melty cheese sticks that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and absolutely irresistible. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering cheese stick pasta.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz penne or any pasta of your choice
• 4 large mozzarella cheese sticks (you can use string cheese or any cheese of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional, for an extra touch of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of water seasoned with salt. Follow the instructions on the package, typically about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of pasta water for later use. Set the pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Cheese Sticks

While the pasta is cooking, take your mozzarella cheese sticks and cut them into small pieces or slice them into thin strips. The cheese should be soft and easy to slice. Set the cheese pieces aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a spacious skillet or pan, warm the olive oil and butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant and golden. Take care not to scorch the garlic.

Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture to combine, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir constantly until the Parmesan cheese has melted into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.

4. Incorporate the Cheese Sticks

Add the cut mozzarella cheese sticks to the creamy sauce. Keep stirring until the cheese begins to melt and incorporate into the sauce. The sauce will start to thicken and become extra cheesy, creating a deliciously gooey texture.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce has reached the desired thickness and the cheese is fully melted, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy, cheesy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

6. Season and Serve

Taste the pasta and season it with salt and black pepper to your liking. Stir in a bit more Parmesan cheese if you prefer a cheesier dish. Once everything is fully combined, take the skillet off the heat.

Serve the cheesy pasta in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Cheese Stick Pasta:

• Customize the Cheese: While mozzarella works wonderfully, you can experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or even a blend for a unique twist.
• Add Veggies or Protein: You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or grilled chicken to elevate the dish and make it more filling.
• Spicy Twist: For a spicy kick, try adding a bit of diced jalapeño or red chili flakes to the sauce.
• Use Fresh Pasta: If you want an extra rich texture, opt for fresh pasta instead of dried for a softer, more delicate bite.

Why This Cheese Stick Pasta Is So Delicious:

The beauty of this cheese stick pasta lies in its creamy, dreamy texture and its gooey, cheesy goodness. As the mozzarella cheese sticks melt into the sauce, they create an irresistible richness that perfectly complements the smoothness of the heavy cream. The combination of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor, while the garlic, oregano, and basil bring aromatic, savory elements to the dish. It’s a comforting meal that’s simple yet satisfying.

Perfect Pairings:

This cheesy pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, crusty garlic bread, or even a side of roasted vegetables. The richness of the cheese makes it the perfect candidate for a light, refreshing salad to balance out the flavors.

Conclusion:

This delicious cheese stick pasta recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re a cheese lover or just looking for a comforting dish, this creamy pasta recipe is simple to make and will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it tonight and indulge in the perfect cheesy pasta experience.