Hey there, pasta lovers! Ever found yourself daydreaming about that four cheese pasta from Cheesecake Factory? Well, buckle up because we’re about to embark on a cheesy adventure right in your own kitchen. Today, we’re diving into a homemade version of their famous Four Cheese Pasta that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer!
Ingredients
- Penne pasta
- Marinara sauce
- Ricotta cheese
- Italian cheese blend
- Large egg
- Fresh garlic
- Fresh basil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Preparation Instructions
1. Prepare the four cheese Sauce
First things first, crank up that oven to 350°F (177°C). While it’s warming up, grab a big mixing bowl and throw in:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups Italian cheese blend
- Your favorite marinara sauce
- Minced garlic
- A pinch of salt and pepper
Give it all a good stir and taste test. Need more seasoning? Go wild! Once you’re happy, crack in that egg and mix it up.
2. Cook the Pasta
Get that water boiling and toss in your penne. Here’s the trick: cook it about 2 minutes less than the package says. We’re going for al dente because it’ll keep cooking in the oven. Drain it and mix it into your cheesy sauce. It should look irresistible at this point!
3. Bake the Dish
Pour your cheesy pasta mix into a baking dish. No need to cover it unless you’re not a fan of those crispy cheese bits on top (but seriously, who isn’t?). Pop it in the oven for 15-20 minutes.
4. Final Touches
Once it’s out of the oven, dollop the remaining ricotta on top. Sprinkle some fresh basil leaves for that Instagram-worthy finish. And voilà! You’ve just created a Cheesecake Factory-worthy dish in your own kitchen.
The Moment of Truth
As you dig into this cheesy masterpiece, you’ll notice how the different cheeses play off each other. The ricotta brings creaminess, while the Italian blend adds that perfect stretch and flavor. The slightly crispy top adds texture, and the fresh basil cuts through the richness. It’s comfort food at its finest, folks!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape? A: Absolutely! Ziti or macaroni elbows work great too. Just pick something that’ll hold onto that cheesy goodness.
Q: What if I’m not a ricotta fan? A: No worries! You can swap it for cream cheese or soft goat cheese. If you’re just not into the dollops on top, try mozzarella balls for a similar effect.
Q: Fresh shredded vs. pre-shredded cheese: What’s the verdict? A: Fresh shredded will melt more evenly, but let’s be real – sometimes we need dinner on the table ASAP. Pre-shredded works just fine and saves time!
Q: What’s the best pasta at The Cheesecake Factory? A: While this Four Cheese Pasta is a knockout, their Pasta da Vinci is my personal fave. But hey, why not try recreating them all at home?
Explore More Recipes
Ready to continue your culinary journey? Check out my other mouthwatering recipes and keep that kitchen creativity flowing!
Credits to Cheesecake Factory for this four cheese pasta cheesecake factory recipe.
