Gourmet Mac & Cheese W- Lots of Variations

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 1
Gourmet Mac & Cheese Recipe with Lots of Variations
in Main

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Ready In

50 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

36 ounces boneless skinless chicken breasts or 36 ounces canned tuna
2 lbs cooked macaroni or 2 lbs other pastas
1 quart heavy cream or 1 quart fat-free half-and-half
6 ounces goat cheese or 6 ounces other cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary
sea salt , to taste
fresh ground black pepper , to taste
2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika or 2 tablespoons other seasoning

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
8
Calories
720
Sugar
7g
Fat
54g
Ah, macaroni and cheese - the ultimate comfort food that brings back childhood memories and satisfies any cheese lover's cravings. This gourmet version of the classic dish takes things up a notch with the addition of goat cheese, fresh rosemary, and chicken or tuna. The creamy and garlicky sauce pairs perfectly with the al dente pasta and tender protein bites. You can also get creative with your mix-ins and toppings, such as bacon, jalapeño, breadcrumbs, or Parmesan. Enjoy this food in moderation with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375°F.
2.Cook chicken breasts or tuna according to your preference, either grilled or baked. Once cooked, chop up into small pieces.
3.Cook macaroni or any other pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4.Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, add rosemary and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add cream or half-and-half, goat cheese or other cheese, paprika or other preferred seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5.In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni or pasta, chopped chicken or tuna, and the cheese sauce until evenly combined. Transfer everything into a large baking dish.
6.Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
7.Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

PROS

This mac & cheese recipe is creamy, rich in flavor, and satisfying.

It’s easy and inexpensive to make, and can be customized to your liking with added ingredients and different pasta shapes.

Leftovers reheat well and can be used for meal prep.

CONS

This recipe can be high in calories, fat, and sodium, depending on the types and amounts of ingredients used.

It may not be the healthiest option for those watching their diet or cholesterol intake.

It requires some time and effort to prepare and bake, and may not be suitable for busy weeknights.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Macaroni and cheese can provide a good source of calcium, protein, and carbohydrates.
It can also be made healthier by using whole wheat pasta, low-fat dairy products, and lean protein.
Adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or tomatoes can boost the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.

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