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Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese for Cozy Nights

This Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese transforms a classic comfort food into a sophisticated dish, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Cellentani or pasta of your choice Use any short pasta for the best texture.
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter Can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose flour Feel free to use whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative.
  • 2 cups Low-fat milk Substitute almond or soy milk for a non-dairy version.
  • 3 cloves Garlic cloves Adjust quantity for more or less garlicky flavor.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Replace with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 cup Shredded Parmesan cheese Mix with gouda or pecorino for different flavors.
  • 1/2 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Replace with any melty cheese of your choice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder Can be omitted for a more subtle taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dry mustard Consider using Dijon mustard for a tangier kick.
For Garnish
  • to taste Finely chopped parsley Chives or omitting altogether are alternatives.
  • to taste Ground black pepper Fresh cracked pepper adds more flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Small Saucepan
  • medium saucepan
  • whisk
  • Colander

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your choice of pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine low-fat milk and three large garlic cloves. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes, then remove the garlic and set the infused milk aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat. Add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Cook until light golden, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Gradually whisk the garlic-infused milk into the roux, then add 1 cup of heavy cream. Whisk until smooth, then incorporate 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard. Heat until cheese melts and sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir the drained pasta into the sauce, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
  6. Transfer your Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese to bowls or a serving dish. Sprinkle with parsley and black pepper, then serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, serve immediately right after making to enjoy its creamy texture.

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