Get ready to revolutionize your mac and cheese game with a mind-blowing twist that'll make your taste buds dance! 🧀✨ Imagine the creamy, cheesy comfort of classic mac and cheese elevated by the unexpected crunch and subtle earthiness of roasted Brussels sprouts. This isn't just another boring pasta dish - it's a gourmet comfort food experience that transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone at the dinner table begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends and slice the sprouts in half lengthwise. Toss them with a light drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, roast the Brussels sprouts cut-side down for 5-7 minutes until they develop a golden-brown caramelization. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same pot used for pasta, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, being careful not to brown the mixture.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni and roasted Brussels sprouts to the cheese sauce, gently folding to ensure even coating.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
Tips
- • For maximum flavor, ensure your Brussels sprouts get a good caramelization by roasting them cut-side down - this creates those delicious golden-brown edges. • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for a smoother, more luxurious sauce. • Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly in the oven. • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier. • For extra crunch, consider topping with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before the final bake. • If you want to add more depth, try using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and gruyère.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 80mg
