Indulge your taste buds with a creamy, dreamy bowl of Garlic Parmesan Macaroni and Cheese that’s sure to become your new favorite comfort food! This Italian-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar and Parmesan with the aromatic goodness of garlic, creating a mouthwatering experience that will have you coming back for seconds. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe is not just about feeding your hunger—it’s about savoring every cheesy bite. Ready to elevate your mac and cheese game? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the melted butter and garlic, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. This helps prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to whisk constantly. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and begins to simmer, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
- Reduce heat to low and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that Parmesan is already salty, so add salt cautiously.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Optional: For a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle additional Parmesan on top, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve that ideal al dente texture, be sure to follow the cooking time on the macaroni package closely. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that won’t hold up in the creamy sauce.
- Smooth Sauce: When making the roux, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. This step is crucial for a velvety cheese sauce that coats every noodle beautifully.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! While sharp cheddar and Parmesan are classic, adding a touch of mozzarella or Gruyère can enhance the flavor and creaminess.
- Garlic Flavor: For a stronger garlic flavor, consider adding a bit of garlic powder along with the minced garlic. Just be cautious not to overpower the dish!
- Crispy Topping: For an extra layer of texture, broil the mac and cheese after baking. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs or additional cheese on top can create a delightful crispy crust.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the mac and cheese to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the sauce thicken and makes it easier to serve.
- Make It Your Own: Add cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a dash of hot sauce to customize your mac and cheese to your liking!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 360kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 50mg
