Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese
A creamy and cheesy twist on classic mac and cheese enriched with garlic and Parmesan, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta and base ingredients
- 8 ounces cavatappi pasta You can use any pasta shape you love.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups milk Add more if needed.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Cheese ingredients
- 1.25 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Feel free to add more for extra creaminess.
- 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Additional Parmesan for garnish if desired.
Seasoning and garnish
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives For garnish.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain well.
Making the Sauce
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Whisk in the flour and stir until it turns lightly browned, about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the cheeses and cook until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 1-2 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, you can add more milk as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining Ingredients
- Finally, add the cooked pasta and gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives if desired.
Notes
Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese is best served hot. For extra flavor, sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top and add a few extra chives for a pop of color. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat adding a splash of milk if necessary.