Description

This rich and creamy Mac and Cheese with Blue Cheese recipe delivers a unique twist on the classic comfort food by combining sharp parmesan, mozzarella, and tangy blue cheese. Enhanced with a touch of sour cream, fresh and green onions, and a subtle spicy kick, this baked macaroni and cheese offers an irresistible blend of flavors and textures perfect for a cozy family meal.

Ingredients

Cheese Mixture

½ cup sour cream
¾ cup milk
⅓ cup shredded sharp parmesan (asiago or white cheddar cheese + 2 tablespoons for topping)
½ cup cubed mozzarella cheese + ¼ cup for topping
½ cup crumbled mild blue cheese

Pasta & Vegetables

2 cups elbow macaroni (dry pasta)
2 tablespoons chopped onion (yellow or red)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Other Ingredients

1 tablespoon of soft butter (for the dish)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Dash of spice or hot sauce (sriracha sauce or hot smoked paprika recommended)
Large pinch of fresh or dried thyme

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Instructions

Boil pasta: Place a large pot with abundant water over high heat. When it starts to boil, add a generous tablespoon of coarse salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, then drain.
Prepare baking dish: Butter a medium baking dish or individual gratin dishes with the soft butter to prevent sticking. A 7x9 inch (18x23cm) oval dish is ideal.
Preheat oven: Set the oven temperature to 350ºF (180°C) to warm while you prepare the cheese mixture.
Mix cheese and onions: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, milk, ½ cup shredded parmesan, ½ cup cubed mozzarella, crumbled mild blue cheese, chopped onion, and green onions, mixing well.
Combine pasta and cheese mixture: Add the drained pasta to the buttered baking dish. Pour the cheese and onion mixture over the macaroni, then season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, a dash of your chosen spice or hot sauce (like sriracha), and a large pinch of thyme. Stir gently to evenly distribute.
Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of parmesan and ¼ cup mozzarella evenly over the top to create a golden crust during baking.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese bubbles and melts thoroughly.
Broil for color: For the final 5 minutes, switch the oven to broil to achieve a deeper golden color on top. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately for best texture and flavor. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

Use mild blue cheese to balance the tangy flavor without overpowering the dish.
You can substitute asiago or white cheddar for the parmesan as preferred.
Adjust the spice level to taste using your favorite hot sauce or smoked paprika.
Butter the baking dish well to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
Broiling time is short — keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave, though texture may soften.