Creamy Roasted Garlic Mac

Macaroni and cheese is a dish that has become synonymous with comfort food, cherished by many for its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. Whether enjoyed as a simple weeknight meal or served as a side at festive gatherings, this classic dish is a staple in kitchens across the globe. However, while traditional macaroni and cheese is delightful in its own right, this recipe takes it to the next level by incorporating the rich, savory flavor of roasted garlic. This unique twist elevates the dish, making it not only a comforting favorite but also a sophisticated option for family dinners and gatherings.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Roasted Garlic Macaroni & Cheese recipe. Elevate a classic dish by adding savory roasted garlic, creating a luxurious blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses for a rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for weeknight meals or special gatherings, this mac and cheese combines creamy goodness with crispy breadcrumb topping for an irresistible texture. Gather your family and friends and savor every delicious bite!

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Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni

1 whole head of garlic

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the individual cloves. Drizzle the exposed cloves with olive oil, wrap the entire head in aluminum foil, and place it in the oven. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are golden and soft. Once roasted, allow the garlic to cool slightly, then squeeze the softened cloves into a small bowl and set aside.

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later use.

Prepare the Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it has melted, gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour, stirring continuously to form a roux. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes, until it bubbles and turns lightly golden.

Incorporate Dairy: Slowly add the whole milk and heavy cream to the roux, whisking steadily to ensure there are no lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low and incorporate the roasted garlic, sharp cheddar cheese, and Gruyère cheese into the sauce. Stir until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce is beautifully creamy. Season with paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to your taste.

Combine: Gently fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the creamy cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.

Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 3-quart baking dish and transfer the mac and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter, ensuring the breadcrumbs are well coated. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.

Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting and creamy roasted garlic mac and cheese warm!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

- Presentation Tips: Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic look or transfer portions to individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Pair with a light salad for a delightful contrast!