Decadent Cheesy Pasta Stack with Creamy Sauce

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this Decadent Cheesy Pasta Stack, layered high with a luscious creamy sauce that will have you craving every bite. This dish combines the satisfying chew of perfectly cooked pasta with rich cheeses and aromatic garlic, making it a showstopper for any pasta lover. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy pasta stack is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Each layer brings a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more.

• Easy to Assemble: Simple layering makes it a breeze to put together.
• Rich and Creamy: The sauce is a smooth blend that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Customizable: Tailor the dish to your taste with various cheeses and herbs.
• Perfect for Sharing: A beautiful presentation for family gatherings or dinner parties.

Ingredients

• 12 oz. of your favorite pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

How to Make Cheesy Pasta Stack

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, and stir in the onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add in the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
6. Remove from heat and fold in the cooked pasta and chopped parsley until well combined.
7. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cheesy pasta mixture, spreading it evenly.
8. Sprinkle half of the remaining Parmesan cheese on top, then repeat with the second layer of pasta and the rest of the cheese.
9. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional parsley and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Results

• For a deeper flavor, use a mixture of cheeses, like cheddar or gouda, alongside mozzarella.
• Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Let the dish rest before slicing to ensure clean layers.

Easy Variations

• Add cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
• Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or add cooked Italian sausage for a meaty twist.

What to Serve With It

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for a delightful pairing.
• Roasted vegetables for a pop of color and added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.

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