Prepare to transform the classic mac and cheese into a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This isn't just another ordinary pasta dish—it's a gourmet experience that combines the creamy, cheesy comfort of traditional mac and cheese with the vibrant, caramelized sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself to an indulgent meal, this recipe promises to be a game-changer that elevates comfort food to an art form.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour (if using) to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove sauce from heat and stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Mix cooked pasta with cheese sauce, ensuring pasta is evenly coated. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Top the macaroni with remaining ½ cup of cheese and breadcrumbs. Arrange roasted tomatoes on top.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until top is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right cheese: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor, and don't be afraid to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for complexity.
- Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercook the macaroni, as it will continue cooking in the oven and absorb the cheese sauce.
- Roast tomatoes carefully: Watch them closely to achieve caramelization without burning. A light drizzle of olive oil helps develop rich flavors.
- Create a crispy topping: For extra crunch, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
- Let it rest: Allow the dish to cool for 5 minutes after baking to let the cheese set and make serving easier.
- Optional garnishes: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, creamy dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 74mg
