Pesto Mac and Cheese

Pesto Mac and Cheese

Recipe by Sonja and AlexDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Cooking time

15

minutes
Calories

425

kcal

A swirl of basil pesto brings so much flavor to this classic comfort food! This pesto mac and cheese features Havarti cheese for ultra creaminess.

Ingredients

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups 2% milk at room temperature

  • 2 cups shredded Havarti or mozzarella cheese (8 ounces)

  •  3 tablespoons Basil Pesto or store bought basil pesto

Directions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook just until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the flour to create a paste. Add the milk and whisk until smooth. Increase the heat to medium and continue whisking until the sauce starts to thicken, about 2 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheese and continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Fold in the pesto.
  • Add the pasta, stirring to combine, and cook just until the pasta is warmed through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • This pesto mac and cheese recipe is Vegetarian. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.