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creamy pesto mac

Creamy Pesto Mac & Cheese Recipe

Craving comfort food with a little flair? This Creamy Pesto Mac & Cheese is the perfect mashup of cozy and classy. Think rich, cheesy goodness!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoon salt divided
  • 8 oz macaroni cooked al dente
  • 2 tablespoon pesto sauce
  • Freshly chopped parsley optional, for garnish

Equipment

Method
 

  1. Sauté the Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and 1 teaspoon of salt, cooking for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
  2. Make the Creamy Base: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring frequently, and let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk 1 tablespoon of flour with 3 tablespoons of water until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken further.
  4. Add the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, and garlic powder. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated. If desired, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for extra flavor.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece in the creamy sauce.
  6. Infuse with Pesto: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the pesto sauce until evenly mixed.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with more parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan, and serve immediately.

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