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I personally use and love these products in my kitchen. I only recommend what I trust!
I personally use and love these products in my kitchen. I only recommend what I trust!
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Alright, let's be real for a second. Mac and cheese? It's a hug in a bowl, right? But sometimes, you just need a little…oomph. Something to make your taste buds sit up and take notice. That's where this Gorgonzola Walnut Mac comes in. My friend, Sarah (who, by the way, once tried to convince me that pineapple belongs on pizza—we still haven't fully recovered from that debate!), introduced me to this concept. Her version used a different cheese, but I knew, knew, that Gorgonzola would be the key to unlocking pure, cheesy bliss. Let's see that image, shall we?
And trust me, it doesn't disappoint. The Gorgonzola melts into this unbelievably creamy, tangy sauce that coats every single noodle. And then? Oh, THEN, you get the walnuts. Toasted to golden perfection, they add this nutty crunch that just balances everything out. It's rich, it's decadent, and it's surprisingly easy to make. Its a total keeper for when you want a 'fancy' dinner but honestly just want comfort food. Plus, it's a total conversation starter. I mean, who expects Gorgonzola in their mac? Prepare for praise. Get your camera ready, too!
Required Equipments
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Baking sheet
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
Gorgonzola Walnut Mac: A Decadent Twist on Comfort Food: Frequently Asked Questions
Gorgonzola Walnut Mac: A Decadent Twist on Comfort Food
Indulge in this luxurious Gorgonzola Walnut Mac and Cheese, a sophisticated twist on classic comfort food. The creamy Gorgonzola sauce, combined with crunchy toasted walnuts, will elevate your mac and cheese experience to gourmet heights.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 6 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- **Get Started:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking, and no one wants a mac and cheese disaster!
- **Toast the Walnuts:** Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them; they burn easily! Once toasted, coarsely chop them and set aside. Toasting brings out their nutty flavor. Trust me, don't skip this step.
- **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions, but reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes. You want it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta and set aside. If you overcook it, your mac will be mushy! No bueno.
- **Make the Cheese Sauce:** While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This helps thicken the sauce. Don't let it burn!
- **Add the Milk:** Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. This takes a little patience, but it's worth it!
- **Incorporate the Cheeses:** Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the Gorgonzola cheese, Gruyere cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. The Gorgonzola will give it that tangy kick, the Gruyere adds richness, and the Parmesan provides a salty, nutty note. Taste, and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- **Combine Pasta and Sauce:** Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Make sure every single noodle gets a generous coating of cheese goodness.
- **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. This ensures it bakes evenly, too.
- **Top with Walnuts:** Sprinkle the toasted walnuts evenly over the mac and cheese. This adds that delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce.
- **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- **Let Rest:** Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together. Patience, young grasshopper!
- **Serve and Enjoy:** Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot. Prepare for the compliments to roll in. You deserve them!
📝 Notes
- For an extra creamy sauce, use whole milk.
- Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for warmth.
- Try different types of pasta, such as cavatappi or shells.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 550 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Fat: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Fiber: 3 g
Calcium: 300 mg
