Prepare to revolutionize your mac and cheese experience with a gourmet twist that transforms the classic comfort food into a culinary masterpiece! This Roasted Tomato Mac and Cheese isn't just another pasta dish - it's a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance with joy. By roasting cherry tomatoes to caramelized perfection and blending them with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, we've elevated the humble mac and cheese from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread halved cherry tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until they are slightly caramelized and soft.
- While tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, being careful not to burn.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every pasta piece is well coated.
- Gently fold in roasted cherry tomatoes, reserving a few for garnish.
- Transfer mac and cheese to a serving dish. Top with reserved roasted tomatoes.
- Serve hot and enjoy immediately while the cheese is creamy and tomatoes are warm.
Tips
- Choose high-quality, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best roasting results. The sweeter and more flavorful your tomatoes, the more delicious your final dish will be.
- When making the roux, keep the heat at medium and whisk constantly to prevent burning. A smooth roux is key to a creamy cheese sauce.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese for a smoother, more authentic melting texture.
- Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente, as it will continue to absorb the cheese sauce after mixing.
- For extra richness, you can substitute some of the milk with heavy cream or add a splash of white wine to the cheese sauce.
- If you want a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and stretchy for the best texture and flavor experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 60mg
