If you're a cheese lover, you'll definitely want to try this 1 cup deluxe four cheese pasta recipe. With only 380 calories per serving, it's a delicious and filling meal that won't leave you feeling guilty.

Not only is it packed with cheesy goodness, but it's also surprisingly nutritious. Each serving contains 16 grams of protein, 31 grams of carbohydrates, and 17 grams of fat, making it a well-rounded meal that will give you the energy you need to power through your day.

In this article, we'll explore some helpful tips and tricks for preparing and cooking this mouth-watering dish, as well as some alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of 1 cup deluxe four cheese pasta contains the following: - calories: 380 - Protein: 16g - Carbohydrates: 31g - Fat: 17g - Cholesterol: 53mg - Sodium: 358mg - Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

To make this delicious dish, you'll need the following ingredients: - 8 oz pasta - 1 tbsp butter - 1 tbsp flour - 1 cup milk - 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup grated Gouda cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese Feel free to adjust the recipe as needed to fit your preferences - you can use different types of cheese or add in some veggies for extra nutrition!

Prep Time

The prep time for this recipe is relatively short - you can have it ready to go in just 10-15 minutes! First, start boiling your 8 oz of pasta in a pot of salted water. While that's cooking, melt 1 tbsp of butter in a separate saucepan. Once the butter has melted, whisk in 1 tbsp of flour to create a roux. Gradually add in 1 cup of milk, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a creamy sauce.

Cook Time

The cook time for this dish is quick and easy - you'll spend just 15-20 minutes total in the kitchen! Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the pan with the creamy cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated and the cheese is melted and gooey. And that's it! Your 1 cup deluxe four cheese pasta is ready to serve.

Serving Size

This recipe serves 2-3 people, depending on appetite size and additional side dishes. If you're cooking for a larger group, feel free to double or triple the recipe as needed!

Calories from Fat

Out of the total 380 calories in this dish, approximately 153 come from fat. While this might seem like a lot, keep in mind that not all fats are created equal. The cheese used in this recipe is a good source of healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can actually be beneficial for heart health. As with all things, moderation is key - enjoying this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet is a great way to get the health benefits of fats while still enjoying a delicious treat.

Allergens

This recipe contains dairy and wheat, which may be allergens for some individuals. If you have a dairy allergy, you can substitute non-dairy milk and cheese alternatives in the recipe. For those with a gluten intolerance or allergy, you can use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional wheat-based noodles. As always, be sure to check labels and consult with your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about what foods are safe for you to consume.

Storage

If you have leftovers from this recipe, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally to make sure the cheese sauce is evenly distributed. Note that the longer the pasta sits in the fridge, the more the cheese sauce may thicken and solidify - if this happens, simply add a splash of milk or cream and microwave until it's heated through to your liking.

Sauce Options

If you're feeling adventurous, there are a variety of sauce options you can try to mix things up and add some variety to this recipe! For a spicy kick, try adding some diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to change up the flavor profile - try swapping out the cheddar for blue cheese, or adding in some brie or goat cheese for a creamier texture. Finally, you can also try swapping out the pasta itself - try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, vegetable-based version of this dish.

Cooking Suggestions

Here are a few practical tips and suggestions to help you get the most out of this recipe: - Be sure to salt your pasta water generously as it cooks - this will help flavor the noodles and prevent them from tasting bland. - If you're having trouble getting the cheese sauce to thicken, try adding a little extra flour or cornstarch to the recipe. Alternatively, you can add a little extra cheese if you want a thicker, more indulgent sauce.