Pasta coated in a quick stovetop cheese sauce made with milk, cornstarch, and melting cheese for an easy comfort-food dinner.
Prep time
15 mins
Cook time
20 mins
Total time
35 mins
Servings
4
Tools Used
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Ingredients
Ingredients
Servings
4 servings1×
Scale
Ingredient amounts update instantly.
Mornay Sauce
Pasta
Instructions
Preparation
- 1
In a saucepan, whisk together fresh milk and cornstarch until smooth. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- 2
Once the mixture thickens, add the grated quick-melt cheese and a pinch of salt. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- 3
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 4
Toss the cooked pasta with the Mornay sauce until well-coated.
- 5
Serve pasta with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh parsley, if desired.
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Learn More
Everything you want to know about this recipe.
Cheese sauce pasta is built for the nights when you want something soft, filling, and easy to scale without a long ingredient list. The base is simple: milk, starch, and cheese, turned into a sauce that coats the noodles without needing a separate roux.
That simplicity is what makes the dish useful. It can stay plain and comforting for children, or it can take on vegetables, pepper, or extra cheese if you want more depth.
The main thing to watch is the sauce texture. It should be thick enough to cling to the pasta, but still loose enough to move when stirred.
What Helps Cheese Sauce Pasta Stay Smooth
What Helps Cheese Sauce Pasta Stay Smooth
Whisking the milk and cornstarch thoroughly before heating keeps the sauce from forming lumps. Once it starts to thicken, lower the heat slightly and add the cheese gradually so it melts evenly.
It also helps to keep a little pasta water nearby. Even a cheese sauce this simple can tighten up once it meets the noodles.
Serving And Storage Notes
Serving And Storage Notes
Serve the pasta hot with black pepper, parsley, or a little grated Parmesan if you want a sharper finish. Steamed broccoli or mushrooms also fit well here.
Leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of milk. Freezing is not ideal, since the sauce can separate once thawed.
This is also a useful base recipe for small additions. Spinach, peas, mushrooms, or shredded chicken can be folded in without changing the basic method, which is part of what makes it practical for weeknight cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 300g)
Calories 61031%
% Reference Intake*
Total Fat 22g31%
Saturated Fat 12g60%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 55mg
Sodium 480mg
Total Carbohydrates 78g30%
Dietary Fiber 3g
Sugars 9g10%
Protein 25g50%
* Reference intakes are based on an average adult's 8,400 kJ / 2,000 kcal diet. Your needs may be higher or lower.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of quick-melt cheese?
Yes, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor. Just note that melting times may vary.
How can I make this pasta sauce creamier?
Add a splash of heavy cream or a small knob of butter while whisking the sauce for an extra silky texture.
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the sauce, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before tossing with pasta.
What pasta shape works best with this sauce?
Penne, fusilli, or macaroni hold the creamy sauce well, but spaghetti or linguine also work beautifully.
How can I make this dish more nutritious?
Add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms into the sauce for a veggie boost without compromising the flavor.
Community Reviews
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4.8
4 ratings
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Daniel
· 1 Jun 2025I swapped penne for macaroni and it turned out fantastic!
Sophie
· 20 Feb 2025Quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. Will make again.
Carlo
· 2 Nov 2024Added a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce, and it tasted restaurant-style.
Maria
· 14 Jul 2024So creamy and cheesy — my kids asked for seconds!
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