Creamy One-Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe
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Recipe Intro From itsleesa__
This creamy one-pot mac and cheese is made with curly Cavatappi noodles, cooked in a rich chicken broth made from Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base. The creamy blend of cheddar and Gruyère cheeses creates a luscious sauce, while a crispy panko topping adds the perfect crunch for a comforting, cheesy delight.
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ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base, divided
- 2 1/2 cups hot water
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1 pound Cavatappi pasta
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 16 ounces cheddar cheese, grated from a whole block
- 12 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated from a whole block
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped chives, for garnish
Method
Step 1
In a bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base with hot water. Stir gently until fully dissolved.
Step 2
Add the prepared chicken broth, whole milk, 1 tablespoon of butter, and a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper into a 4.5 qt Dutch oven. Stir gently to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, add the cavatappi pasta. Stir, cover, and cook for about 2 minutes less than the package instructions, until just before al dente.
Step 3
While the pasta cooks, prepare the panko topping. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the remaining 1 teaspoon of Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, and cracked black pepper. Stir in the butter mixture until the breadcrumbs are fully coated.
Step 4
Once the pasta is nearly done, stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted.
Step 5
Preheat your oven to Broil-Low. Sprinkle the panko topping evenly over the mac and cheese. Transfer the Dutch oven to the oven and broil for 2-5 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it as broil times can vary by oven.
Step 6
Let the mac and cheese sit for 5 minutes to set before serving. Transfer to a bowl and garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.