Caprese Mac and Cheese
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.
Caprese Mac and Cheese
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 2 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a comforting classic with a fresh, vibrant twist? This Caprese Mac and Cheese delivers the best of both worlds, transforming a beloved family dinner into something truly special in just 25 minutes.
What sets this mac and cheese apart is its inspired fusion of creamy, rich cheese sauce with the bright, aromatic flavors of a classic Caprese salad. You get the familiar comfort of a cheesy pasta dish, elevated by the fresh notes of grape tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a luscious balsamic glaze. This isn't just mac and cheese; it's an experience that’s both indulgent and surprisingly fresh.
Prepare for a symphony of textures and tastes. Each forkful of perfectly cooked rigatoni is coated in a velvety, luxurious sauce crafted from a blend of extra sharp white cheddar and shredded Parmesan, with pockets of gooey fresh mozzarella pearls. The sweetness of halved grape tomatoes bursts through, complemented by the peppery freshness of julienned basil. A drizzle of rich balsamic glaze adds a sophisticated tang that ties all the vibrant flavors together, creating a truly memorable dish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a casual gathering.
Customization & Variations
While rigatoni is a fantastic choice, you could experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or cavatappi for a different bite. If you're looking to add more richness, a touch of smoked mozzarella could elevate the cheese profile. For an extra pop of flavor, try roasting the grape tomatoes lightly before adding them to the dish, which intensifies their sweetness.
This Caprese Mac and Cheese is designed to be the star of any family dinner or a delightful addition to a potluck. Serve it warm, perhaps with a simple green salad on the side, to balance the richness and create a complete meal.