Written By When hunger strikes and you need a quick and satisfying meal, look no further than this 15-minute cheese and pepper pasta recipe. With its simple ingredients and speedy preparation, you can have a delicious and comforting dish on the table in no time. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of your favorite pasta
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (choose your preferred color)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup of milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until they become tender and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the onion and pepper mixture.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese over the pasta and gently stir until the cheese starts to melt.
- Pour in the milk or cream and continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted, creating a creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a little more milk or cream.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind the saltiness of the cheese.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a touch of freshness.
- Serve the cheese and pepper pasta immediately while it’s still hot and the cheese is beautifully melted.
In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a piping hot bowl of cheese and pepper pasta that’s both comforting and satisfying. The combination of tender pasta, caramelized onions, and vibrant bell peppers creates a delightful medley of flavors. The melted cheese adds a creamy richness that ties everything together.
Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. Experiment with different cheese varieties or add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat. You can also toss in some cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor the dish to suit your preferences.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a hungry family, this 15-minute cheese and pepper pasta is a winner. It’s a speedy and satisfying option that doesn’t compromise on taste. With its simplicity and deliciousness, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your repertoire. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a scrumptious meal in no time.
