Description
Here’s a delicious Cavatappi Mac and Cheese recipe with a creamy, cheesy sauce and the perfect texture. This dish is great as a comforting main course or a side dish!
Ingredients
Scale
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- 4 cups cooked (al-dente) Cavatappi pasta, cook al-dente according to package instructions
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- 3 tablespoons butter
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- 3 tablespoons flour
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- 2 cups milk (set on counter for about 5 minutes before using so it’s room temperature)
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- 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
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- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or salt to taste
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- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta: Boil the cavatappi pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
- Season and add cheese: Remove from heat and stir in granulated garlic and salt. Add the cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir until evenly coated.
- Bake: Transfer the mac and cheese to the prepared baking dish. If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Swap out cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: per serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg