Prepare to revolutionize your mac and cheese experience with this gourmet Asiago Macaroni and Cheese that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Forget everything you know about ordinary mac and cheese - this recipe combines the rich, nutty flavor of Asiago with classic cheddar, creating a creamy, irresistible dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a comfort food enthusiast or a culinary adventurer, this recipe promises to elevate your dinner game to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded Asiago cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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 rolling 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. Once fully melted and bubbling, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps form.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to simmer, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded Asiago and cheddar cheeses until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese to create a crispy golden topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh ground black pepper or chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- For the creamiest sauce, use room temperature milk and grate your own cheese directly from a block - pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- Don't rush the roux! Take your time whisking the butter and flour to create a smooth base for your cheese sauce.
- Use high-quality, freshly grated Asiago cheese for the most intense flavor. The difference in taste is remarkable.
- For an extra crispy topping, try mixing your breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
- For a gourmet twist, consider adding crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg
