If you love rich, creamy, and indulgent pasta dishes, the Cheesecake Factory 4 Cheese Pasta Recipe is a must-try! This dish combines a perfect blend of four cheeses, a garlicky tomato sauce, and al dente pasta, creating a restaurant-quality meal you can enjoy at home.
Whether you’re a fan of cheesy pasta bakes or looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner, this Cheesecake Factory-inspired recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake Factory 4 Cheese Pasta Recipe
✔️ Rich and creamy – The four-cheese blend creates an ultra-smooth and velvety texture.
✔️ Restaurant-quality meal – Enjoy Cheesecake Factory flavors in the comfort of your home.
✔️ Simple ingredients – You likely have most of these in your pantry already!
✔️ Perfect for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients for the Cheesecake Factory 4 Cheese Pasta Recipe
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Cheese Mixture:
- ½ cup whole milk ricotta cheese (plus an additional ¼ cup for topping)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup grated Romano cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How to Make Cheesecake Factory 4 Cheese Pasta – Step by Step
1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano cheese, and the beaten egg.
- Mix until well combined and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Tomato Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and dried oregano, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, fresh basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine the Sauce and Cheese Mixture
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the cheese mixture, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
5. Assemble the Dish
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce.
- Serve in individual bowls, topping each serving with a dollop of reserved ricotta cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.
Customization & Variations
1. Spicy Four Cheese Pasta 🔥
- Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
2. Baked 4 Cheese Pasta 🧀
- Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until golden brown.
3. Meat Lovers Version 🍖
- Add cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or crispy bacon for extra protein.
4. Creamier Version 🥛
- Mix in ½ cup heavy cream for an ultra-rich texture.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesecake Factory 4 Cheese Pasta Recipe
✔️ Use high-quality cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan, Romano, and mozzarella melt better than pre-packaged cheese.
✔️ Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
✔️ Let the sauce simmer – This helps develop the deep, rich flavors.
✔️ Save pasta water – It helps loosen the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
FAQs About Cheesecake Factory 4 Cheese Pasta Recipe
1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, fettuccine, or cavatappi all work well for this recipe.
2. How do I store leftovers?
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and cheese mixture in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine everything fresh.
4. Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! Just ensure your Parmesan and Romano cheese are vegetarian (some contain animal rennet).
5. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta and double-check that your tomato sauce and cheese are gluten-free.
Conclusion – The Best Cheesecake Factory 4 Cheese Pasta Recipe
This Cheesecake Factory 4 Cheese Pasta Recipe is creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you make it spicy, baked, or with extra protein, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Try making this delicious pasta dish tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home! 🍝🧀