Caprese Mac and Cheese
25 minutes and 10 ingredients is all it takes to make this Caprese mac and cheese - the perfect twist on a tried and true classic family dinner! It's loaded with sharp white cheddar, shredded Parmesan and fresh mozzarella along with grape tomatoes, fresh basil and balsamic glaze!
Ingredients
- 16 oz. rigatoni, cooked al dente
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 8 oz. extra sharp white cheddar
- 5 oz. shredded Parmesan
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 2-3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 1/2 cup juilenned fresh basil
- Kosher salt
- fresh cracked pepper
Directions
- 1
Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add butter and stir frequently until melted.
- 2
Add flour and stir to combine. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- 3
Slowly pour in milk, stirring until well combined. Cook for 4-5 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- 4
Add sharp cheddar and Parmesan to the milk mixture. Stir until melted. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- 5
Add cooked rigatoni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- 6
Top rigatoni with fresh mozzarella and halved tomatoes.
- 7
Broil for 1-2 minutes or until the mozzarella is melted and turning dark golden brown.
- 8
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil.