Macaroni & Goat Cheese

Karen in MA (formerly OC)'s Note:

This version of a classic, combines creamy goat cheese and nutty Parmesan. The macaroni is mixed with the cheesy sauce, and then topped with a Parmesan, thyme, breadcrumb, and goat cheese mixture. Serve with a green salad and loaf of crusty bread. This dish can be made several hours ahead of time; cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

• Total Time: 50 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 40 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 1/2 lb macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• fresh ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup packed grated parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup goat cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Topping

• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons dried breadcrumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon chopped fresh)
• 1/4 cup goat cheese (about 1 ounce)
• freshly grated pepper

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to boil.
2. Add the macaroni and cook about 8 to 10 minutes, or until just tender, depending on the size of the pasta. Drain.
3. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. When the butter is melted and sizzling, stir in the flour to create a paste and cook 1 minute.
4. Slowly add the milk, whisking to create a smooth sauce. Let cook about 5 minutes or until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Remove the pan from the heat and slowly add the grated Parmesan and the goat cheese, whisking to create a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Use the olive oil to grease the bottom of a medium size gratin or baking dish, about 8 to 10 inches long.
7. Place the drained macaroni in the dish and pour the cheese sauce on top, stirring gently to coat all the macaroni.
8. In a small bowl, make the topping. Mix the Parmesan, breadcrumbs, thyme, and pepper. Spoon over the macaroni and top with the goat cheese.
9. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the pasta is hot.

Reviews

[Tweety007]

I used this recipe for my christmas dinner and it was a hit. Only change I made was add a little sauntered onion to butter before adding the flour.
Great recipe...JH

[*Parsley*]

Awesome! It's got more of a grown-up flavor to it. The goat cheese (I used chevre) helps to keep it creamy, while adding excellent flavor. The topping was great, too. I think this is my new favorite mac & cheese recipe. Thanx so much!