Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese
Indulge in a creamy and cheesy delight with this Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese recipe. The combination of cavatappi pasta with a rich and flavorful cheese sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan creates an irresistible dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re searching for a comforting meal or a side dish to impress your guests, this recipe will not disappoint.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Cavatappi pasta
8 ounces
Unsalted butter
4 tablespoons
Garlic, minced
4 cloves
All-purpose flour
3 tablespoons
Milk
1½ cups, or more as needed
Heavy cream
½ cup
Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon
Dried thyme
1 teaspoon
Shredded mozzarella cheese
1¼ cups
Crumble gorgonzola cheese
¼ cup
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
to taste
Chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons
Prep Time
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
With this simple yet delectable recipe for Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese, you can create a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Make the Roux
Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
Add Liquids and Seasonings
Gradually whisk in the milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is well incorporated and slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
Incorporate the Cheeses
Stir in the shredded mozzarella, crumbled gorgonzola, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce becomes too thick, add more milk as needed to reach the desired consistency. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and gently toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh chives if desired.
Notes
Pasta Choice
Cavatappi works well, but you can substitute with elbow macaroni or any pasta you prefer.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or fontina for different flavor profiles.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cook Techniques
Cooking Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions. The goal is to achieve an al dente texture, which means the pasta should be firm to the bite.
Preparing the Sauce
Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. This step infuses the butter with garlic flavor, which is essential for the dish.
Making the Roux
Whisk in all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook it until lightly browned, which helps to develop the flavor and gives the sauce a thicker consistency.
Adding Liquids and Seasonings
Gradually incorporate milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously. This ensures a smooth base for the cheese sauce. Add Dijon mustard and dried thyme for flavor enhancement.
Incorporating the Cheeses
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in mozzarella, gorgonzola, and Parmesan cheeses. Mixing these cheeses into the sauce creates a rich and creamy texture.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and gently toss to ensure every piece of pasta is coated evenly. This step is crucial for achieving a cohesive and flavorful dish.
Serving
Serve the dish immediately while it’s hot, garnished with fresh chives to add a touch of color and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute cavatappi with other pasta types like elbow macaroni, penne, or fusilli, keeping in mind the cooking time may vary.
What can I substitute for gorgonzola cheese?
If you don’t have gorgonzola, you can use other blue cheeses or skip it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead and combine it with the pasta before serving. Reheat it on the stove or in the oven until warmed through.
Can I add vegetables to the mac and cheese?
Absolutely! You can add cooked vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or tomatoes to enhance nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese is a delightful blend of creamy cheeses and savory garlic, making it a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Truffle Mac and Cheese
Add a touch of elegance by incorporating truffle oil into your cheese sauce. This sophisticated spin elevates the dish with a unique earthy flavor.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Spice things up by adding shredded buffalo chicken and a dash of hot sauce, creating a zesty and hearty meal that packs a punch.
Veggie-Packed Mac and Cheese
Boost your nutrition by mixing in sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. This adds color and health benefits without sacrificing flavor.
Five-Cheese Mac and Cheese
Take the cheese factor to the next level by using a blend of five different cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, fontina, mozzarella, and blue cheese for a rich and decadent dish.
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Indulge in luxury by incorporating fresh lobster meat into your mac and cheese. This seafood twist is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests.
Mac and Cheese with Bacon
For a smoky flavor, mix crispy bacon bits into your mac and cheese. The savory crunch adds a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta.
Spinach and Artichoke Mac and Cheese
Inspired by the classic dip, blend in spinach and artichoke hearts for a cheesy and tangy variation that is sure to be a hit.
