Go Back
+ servings
Cheesy Orange Pasta

Cheesy Orange Pasta: Creamy Comfort with a Zesty Twist

Enjoy Cheesy Orange Pasta, a comforting and creamy dish with zesty orange flavor in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 750

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 250 g pasta (penne or farfalle) These shapes hold the sauce well.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Great for sautéing garlic.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Adjust quantity for preferred intensity.
  • 1 medium orange, zested and juiced Adds bright flavor.
  • 100 ml heavy cream Creates a luxurious texture.
  • 150 g cheddar cheese, grated Sharp cheddar recommended.
  • 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated Freshly grated will melt better.
  • Salt and Pepper To taste.
For the Finish
  • fresh basil leaves For garnish, optional but recommended.
  • grated orange zest For garnish, adds visual appeal.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • colander
  • Measuring spoons
  • measuring cup

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 250g of pasta and cook until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the juice and zest of 1 medium orange into the skillet with the garlic. Simmer for about 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in 100ml of heavy cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Gradually add 150g of grated cheddar and 50g of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
  8. Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional grated orange zest.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 750kcalCarbohydrates: 90gProtein: 20gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and avoid pre-shredded cheese. Monitor cooking times closely to prevent bitterness from overcooked garlic.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!