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Mushroom Mac and Cheese

Mushroom Mac and Cheese
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Mushroom Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish featuring tender elbow macaroni combined with a rich cheese sauce and savory sautéed mushrooms. This recipe elevates classic mac and cheese with earthy mushroom flavors and a luscious texture, perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Mushrooms and Aromatics

  • 1 ½ cups assorted mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, button), diced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend/cornstarch for GF)
  • 2 cups warm milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream, warm
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings (Optional)

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • Additional shredded cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking and mushiness later.
  2. Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté the diced mushrooms with minced garlic and finely chopped onions until golden and fragrant, building the savory, umami flavor base.
  3. Make the Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour to form a smooth paste, and cook for 2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
  4. Build the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream to the roux, stirring constantly until thickened, then slowly add shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and silky smooth.
  5. Combine Pasta, Mushrooms, and Sauce: Gently fold the sautéed mushrooms and cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring even coating.
  6. Bake (Optional): Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra cheese on top, and bake under a broiler or in the oven until the topping is golden and crunchy, adding a delightful texture contrast.

Notes

  • Use room temperature dairy for smoother sauce without lumps.
  • Do not overcook pasta to maintain firmness during baking.
  • Choose fresh, firm mushrooms for best texture and flavor.
  • Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting.
  • Constantly stir the sauce to prevent burning or clumping.
  • Season gradually and taste throughout the cooking process.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, mushroom mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, vegetarian, creamy mushroom pasta, easy dinner, baked mac and cheese

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/mushroom-mac-and-cheese/