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Pesto Havarti Macaroni Recipe

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4.3 from 47 reviews

  • Author: Sky
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Pesto Macaroni with Havarti cheese is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Adapted from Maria Lichty’s recipe, it features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a smooth cheese sauce made from Havarti and sharp white cheddar, with vibrant pesto added for a fresh, herbaceous touch. Optional mix-ins like peas and fresh basil add subtle pops of color and flavor, making this meal both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups (12 ounces) elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk, at room temperature (can substitute almond milk)
  • 1 cup shredded Havarti cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Generous scoops of pesto

Optional Mix-ins

  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • ½ cup fresh basil
  • Pinches of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
  2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a smooth paste (roux). Gradually add the room-temperature milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Increase heat back to medium and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add cheeses and season: Stir in the shredded Havarti and sharp white cheddar cheeses along with ½ teaspoon sea salt. Continue stirring until all the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust the seasoning with freshly ground black pepper and additional salt if needed.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Heat briefly until the pasta is warmed through.
  5. Add mix-ins and serve: If using, gently fold in thawed peas for an added pop of sweetness. Serve the macaroni warm with generous dollops of fresh pesto, sprinkled fresh basil leaves, and pinches of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.

Notes

  • Using almond milk instead of whole milk works well for a dairy-free alternative, but keep in mind it may slightly change the flavor and texture.
  • For best results, serve immediately to enjoy the creamy texture of the cheese sauce.
  • Feel free to experiment with other mix-ins like sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken for added protein.
  • Adjust the amount of pesto and red pepper flakes according to your flavor preference for milder or spicier notes.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://skysrecipes.com/pesto-havarti-macaroni-recipe/