Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with a delightful twist on a classic favorite! Our "Spring Medley Mac and Cheese with Wisconsin Cheese" is not just another cheesy dish; it's a vibrant celebration of spring flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Imagine creamy, dreamy macaroni enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, complemented by fresh asparagus and spinach. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering with friends. Trust us, once you try this recipe, you'll never look at mac and cheese the same way again!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Macaroni
- Wisconsin cheddar cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Milk
- Butter
- Flour
- Spinach
- Asparagus, chopped
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta cooks, prepare a large skillet. Melt butter over medium heat, then add finely chopped asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Sprinkle flour over the butter and asparagus, stirring constantly to create a light roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Simmer the mixture for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Add shredded Wisconsin cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Drain the cooked macaroni and return to the pot. Add fresh spinach leaves and the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of cheese and vegetables.
- Transfer to serving dishes, garnish with additional cheese if desired, and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Perfectly: Make sure to cook the macaroni just until al dente. This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and texture when mixed with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Create a Smooth Sauce: When making the roux, stir constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Gradually adding the milk while whisking will help achieve a silky smooth cheese sauce.
- Customize Your Greens: Feel free to experiment with other spring vegetables like peas or broccoli if you want to mix things up. They’ll add even more color and nutrition to your dish!
- Add Extra Flavor: For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. This will enhance the overall flavor profile and make it even more irresistible.
- Serve Immediately: Mac and cheese is best enjoyed fresh and hot. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, you can make the cheese sauce separately and combine it with the pasta just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 293kcal
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 15g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: mg
