Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for comfort food that manages to feel both elegant and incredibly easy, look no further than Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta. This copycat recipe recreates the iconic restaurant favorite at home, offering silky penne coated in a rich marinara and cheese sauce, finished with clouds of ricotta and fresh basil. With every creamy, cheesy, tomato-kissed bite, you’ll be transported to your favorite booth—without even making a reservation. This is the dish you’ll want to share with friends, whip up for family night, or turn to on those “I need something delicious right now” evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta is in how just a few everyday ingredients transform into something irresistibly decadent. Each one is essential—bringing flavor, luscious texture, and vibrant color to the final dish.

• Penne Pasta: The perfect shape for catching all that gooey, cheesy sauce; cook it just to al dente for best texture.
• Ricotta Cheese (divided): Adds creaminess and a light, cloudlike finish when dolloped on top of the pasta before serving.
• Marinara Sauce: Choose a good-quality sauce for balanced tomato flavor that lets the cheeses shine.
• Egg: Binds the cheese mixture together, creating a silken, almost custardy texture in the sauce.
• Mozzarella (shredded): Melts beautifully, giving that gooey, stretchy element you crave in every cheesy pasta.
• Italian Blend Cheese (shredded): Brings a subtle complexity from a blend of cheeses—often including provolone and Romano.
• Parmesan Cheese (divided & shredded): Adds sharpness and a nutty note; save some for the irresistible sprinkle on top!
• Fresh Basil (chopped): Lifts everything with herby brightness and a pop of green, the finishing touch to make it truly Cheesecake Factory worthy.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and letting all those beautiful flavors pop.

How to Make Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your penne pasta. Cook until just al dente—don’t overdo it, since the pasta continues soaking up flavor from the sauce later. Drain well, and toss the penne with a drizzle of olive oil; this helps prevent sticking as you prep the cheesy sauce.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture

While your pasta drains, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine one cup of ricotta cheese with the shredded mozzarella, Italian blend cheese, 1/4 cup of parmesan, and the egg. This mixture creates the creamy, rich heart of the Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta, bringing every bite that signature melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce

Spoon your marinara sauce and the prepared cheese mixture into a large saucepan or deep skillet. Set over medium-low heat, and stir gently but consistently. As everything warms together, the cheeses will melt, the egg will bind, and the sauce transforms into a beautifully silky, cheesy blanket—all in about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add the cooked penne directly to the bubbling cheese sauce. Toss everything together until each piece is gloriously coated—don’t be shy! This is where the flavors marry, and the pasta takes on all that rich color and flavor that makes Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta so craveable.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Divide your pasta among six warm bowls. Finish each with a generous dollop of the reserved ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of remaining parmesan, and a shower of chopped fresh basil. The contrast between the cool ricotta and hot, cheesy penne is what will make everyone absolutely swoon.

How to Serve Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta

Garnishes

The hallmark of this pasta is in the finishing touches. That final scoop of creamy ricotta cheese, bright green ribbons of basil, and extra parmesan give the Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta its irresistible restaurant flair. Want even more richness? Try a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil or a crack of black pepper just before serving.

Side Dishes

Since this dish is wonderfully rich, pair it with something light and fresh: a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or a simple plate of steamed broccoli. If you want a full-on comfort feast, serve with garlic bread for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Make it a showstopper by serving Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta in a big, family-style platter at the table, topped with extra basil and parmesan. Or, portion it into individual mini baking dishes, top with a little extra cheese, and broil for a bubbly, golden finish. If you’re hosting friends, garnish each plate with a sprig of basil for a restaurant-inspired touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge, where it’ll keep beautifully for up to three days. When you revisit it, you may find the flavors even deeper and richer.

Freezing

For longer storage, Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta freezes like a dream. Spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or zip bags, pressing out air to avoid freezer burn. It will keep for up to two months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture when reheating.

Reheating

To bring your pasta back to its creamy best, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or a little marinara to loosen up the sauce and stir until heated through. Avoid overcooking, as this keeps the cheese lush and smooth, not rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While penne is classic for Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta, any sturdy pasta like rigatoni, ziti, or even shells will work beautifully and hold the sauce just as well.

Which blend of cheeses works best?

The Italian cheese blend typically mixes mozzarella, provolone, and Romano or asiago. Feel free to use your favorite combination, but keep mozzarella in the mix for that signature stretchy bite!

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! As long as your cheeses and marinara sauce are vegetarian (no animal rennet), this recipe is perfectly suited for vegetarians. Double-check labels if you’re aiming for a completely meat-free meal.

Can I add protein to this pasta?

Certainly. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even Italian sausage are all delicious additions that transform Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta into a heartier meal without sacrificing the cheesy, saucy goodness.

How do I keep my cheese sauce smooth?

Stir the sauce gently and heat slowly over medium-low. Avoid boiling, which can cause the cheese to separate. If needed, add a splash of warm milk to bring the sauce together if it gets too thick.

Final Thoughts

Once you try your hand at making Cheesecake Factory Four Cheese Pasta at home, you’ll realize just how easy it is to recreate a restaurant classic in your own kitchen. There’s nothing quite like a big bowl of creamy, cheesy pasta to make any day a bit more special. Whether you’re sharing with friends or just treating yourself, this is one dish I hope you’ll love making—and savoring—as much as I do!

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