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–+ servings
A bowl of creamy orecchiette pasta, a delicious and easy dinner recipe, sprinkled with black pepper.

Easy Orecchiette with Creamy Cheddar Sauce

Learn how to make a quick and delicious orecchiette pasta dish with a creamy cheddar sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to become a family favorite.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Calories: 694
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound orecchiette
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, bring the orecchiette, milk, salt and pepper to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Boil, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and thickened to a sauce-like consistency and the pasta is tender, 14 to 16 minutes. The pasta takes longer to cook than the package recommends because you’re starting with cold milk rather than boiling water.
  3. Stir in the butter, cream cheese and cheddar cheese, mixing until they are melted and incorporated. As you stir, the sauce will become creamier. Spoon into bowls and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 694kcalCarbohydrates: 66gProtein: 29gFat: 35gSugar: 11g

Notes

This recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your preference.

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