Indulge in a creamy, dreamy delight that takes the classic comfort food to a whole new level! Our Mushroom Sage Mac and Cheese is not just another pasta dish; it’s a savory symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Imagine perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, enhanced by the earthy goodness of sautéed mushrooms and the fragrant touch of fresh sage. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Ready to elevate your mac and cheese game? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 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 pasta and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and become golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add chopped fresh sage to the mushrooms. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes to release the sage's aromatic oils.
- In the same skillet, pour heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- If the sauce appears too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve desired consistency.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and fold gently to coat evenly with the mushroom sage cheese sauce.
- Optional: Transfer to a baking dish, top with additional cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden, crispy top.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set and flavors to meld.
Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente. This will ensure that the pasta holds its shape and texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
- Sauté Mushrooms Properly: Take your time when sautéing the mushrooms. Allow them to brown nicely to enhance their flavor. If you overcrowd the pan, they may steam instead of sauté, preventing that delicious golden color.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you find the cheese sauce too thick, don’t hesitate to add the reserved pasta water gradually. This will help you achieve the perfect creamy consistency without compromising on flavor.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar and Parmesan are fantastic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Mixing cheeses can create a more complex taste.
- Broil for a Crispy Top: For that irresistible crispy topping, transfer your mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil for a few minutes. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let your mac and cheese sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish for Presentation: Add a sprinkle of fresh sage or a dash of paprika on top before serving for a pop of color and an extra hint of flavor.With these tips, your Mushroom Sage Mac and Cheese will be a showstopper at any meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 95mg
