Easy Peasy Mac & Cheesy is a comforting dish that brings back cherished moments shared with my two girls. This recipe combines the rich tanginess of aged cheddar, the smooth creaminess of American cheese, and the sharp finish of 15-year-aged Parmigiano Reggiano. The al dente pasta means you can whip up a bowl of mac and cheese in just 5 minutes.
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| • 10 oz pasta per serving (cooked al dente) | 1. Prepare Al Dente Pasta: Cook regular pasta for exactly 1 minute less than the package says, then immediately shock it with cold water. 2 minutes less for gluten-free pasta. Drain well, then toss with a little olive or avocado oil to prevent sticking. |
| • 8 oz heavy cream or half-and-half | 2. Simmer the Cream: In a saucepan, bring heavy cream or half-and-half to a simmer over high heat. |
| • 10 oz pasta (cooked al dente) | 3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan. |
| • 5 oz American cheese • 2 oz aged cheddar (minimum 5 years, I use 15-year-aged) • 1 oz Parmigiano Reggiano • 1 egg yolk | 4. Add Cheese and Egg Yolk: Add the cheese (8oz total) then egg yolk, stirring from the center. For gluten-free pasta, you can optionally add vegetables or chicken at this step for texture. |
| • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste • Italian parsley and fresh dill | 5. Season and Garnish: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish as desired with Italian parsley and fresh dill. |