Mac & Cheese Wheel Pasta

This Mac & Cheese Wheel Pasta is the ultimate creamy comfort dish with a playful twist. Tender wheel-shaped pasta is coated in a velvety, seasoned cheese sauce made from cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Garlic, butter, and cream build a rich base, while paprika and onion powder add subtle depth. It’s quick, nostalgic, and perfect for a weeknight indulgence or a fun dinner surprise.

Author: These Carbs Don't Count

Meal Type: Peanuts Free

Cuisine: American

Difficulty: MEDIUM

Prep. Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 2 bowls

Calories: 1,206 kcal per serving

Ingredients

½ - pasta
4 tablespoons - unsalted butter
2 cloves - garlic
1 ½ cups - heavy cream
Salt
Black pepper
½ tsp - paprika
½ tsp - garlic powder
½ tsp - onion powder
1 cup - shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup - shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup - grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup - reserved pasta water

Instructions

Cook wheel pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until a smooth, creamy sauce forms.
Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until evenly coated.
Top with extra Parmesan and serve warm.

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