This creamy blue cheese pasta is a treat! With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Just boil the pasta and mix it with a simple sauce!
You’ll love how quick it is to make, and the smell is amazing while it cooks. I usually add a sprinkle of nuts for some crunch! Who knew cooking could be this easy and tasty? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using fettuccine or linguine because they hold the sauce well. However, any pasta type like spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta can work. Just cook it as per the package directions.
Blue Cheese: This ingredient is key for flavor, but if you’re not a fan of its strong taste, you might try a milder cheese like Gorgonzola or even feta for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick and creamy. I’ve also used plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
Bacon: While it’s optional, crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. You can skip it for a vegetarian dish or swap it with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty flavor.
How Do You Make the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The key to a smooth and creamy sauce lies in how you combine the ingredients. Start by melting the butter and sautéing garlic gently, ensuring it doesn’t burn, to develop a great base flavor. Then follow these steps:
- Once you add the heavy cream, let it simmer gently to thicken without boiling.
- Stir in crumbled blue cheese slowly, allowing it to gently melt and infuse flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency—it really helps in bringing everything together!
By taking your time with the sauce, you’ll achieve that perfect creamy texture every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Blue Cheese Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or linguine pasta
For the Sauce:
- 3 oz (85 g) blue cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Blue Cheese Pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare. With just 10 minutes for cooking the pasta and another 10 for making the creamy blue cheese sauce, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and make sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of the cooking water for later.
2. Making the Sauce Base:
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it because you want the garlic to be fragrant, not browned, as that could give it a bitter taste.
3. Adding the Cream:
Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will help create a rich and creamy sauce.
4. Incorporating the Cheese:
Now, reduce the heat to low and add the crumbled blue cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is nice and smooth.
5. Finishing the Sauce:
Add in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until fully incorporated. If you’re using bacon, add the cooked bacon pieces to the sauce at this point and stir to combine.
6. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, mixing well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, carefully add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Seasoning:
Finally, season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it one last stir!
8. Serving:
Your Blue Cheese Pasta is ready to be served! Scoop it onto plates and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant touch. Enjoy this creamy, savory dish with a side of salad or steamed vegetables!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can swap it for a milder cheese like Gorgonzola or even feta for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that the taste and creaminess will vary based on the cheese you choose.
Can I Make This Pasta Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon. You might also try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added depth and flavor. Just ensure your cheese is rennet-free if you want to keep it fully vegetarian!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
What Should I Serve This Pasta With?
This creamy Blue Cheese Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Enjoying it with a nice glass of white wine is also a delightful choice!