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Three-Cheese Pasta with Basil and Black Pepper

Three-Cheese Pasta with Basil and Black Pepper

By Diane UngerApril 7, 2020

  • Makes
    4 to 6 servings
  • Cook Time
    40 minute
  • Active time plus cooling
    15 minutes active
  • Rating

This version of macaroni and cheese combines light creaminess with high-impact flavor. The starch from the pasta, combined with a small measure of cornstarch and a dose of heavy cream creates a rich sauce that lightly coats the pasta. Three types of Italian cheese—asiago, fontina and Parmesan—provide plenty of depth, complemented by fresh basil and black pepper. We like curly cavatappi pasta, but campanelle or large elbows work, too.

Tip

Don't forget to add the butter to the pot along with the water and pasta. The fat prevents the starchy liquid from bubbling up through the pressure-release valve.

Ingredients
  • 8

    ounces asiago cheese, shredded (2 cups)

  • 8

    ounces fontina cheese, shredded (2 cups)

  • 1½

    teaspoons cornstarch

  • 1

    pound cavatappi pasta

  • 2

    tablespoons salted butter, cut into 2 pieces

  • ½

    cup heavy cream

  • ½

    cup finely chopped fresh basil

  • Ground black pepper

  • ½

    ounce Parmesan cheese, finely grated (¼ cup)

Step 1

In a large bowl, toss together the asiago, fontina and cornstarch; set aside. In a 6-quart Instant Pot, combine 5 cups water, the pasta and butter; stir to combine, then distribute in an even layer.

Step 2

Lock the lid in place and move the pressure valve to Sealing. Select Pressure Cook or Manual; make sure the pressure level is set to High. Set the cooking time for 3 minutes.

When pressure cooking is complete, quick-release the steam by moving the pressure valve to Venting. Press Cancel, then carefully open the pot.

Step 3

Select Normal/Medium Sauté, add the cream and bring to a simmer. One handful at a time, stir in the cheese mixture; after all the cheese has been added, continue to stir until fully melted.

Return to a simmer and cook, stirring gently, until the mixture has thickened, about 1 minute. Press Cancel to turn off the pot.

Using potholders, carefully remove the insert from the housing. Let stand for 5 minutes. Stir in the basil and ½ to 1 teaspoon pepper. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with Parmesan.

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