Mascarpone and Cheddar Mac and Cheese

The mascarpone makes this rich and creamy without needing to fuss with a roux.

• Ready In: 20 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  lb elbow macaroni
• 2  tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1⁄2 cup heavy cream (35% butterfat)
• 8  ounces mascarpone
• 8  ounces cheddar cheese, grated
•  salt, to taste
•  ground black pepper, to taste
•  hot sauce (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare macaroni according to package directions.
2. While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large pot. Add cream and bring to a simmer. Add mascarpone and stir until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, hot sauce (if using) and cheddar; stir until melted and smooth.
3. Drain pasta, reserving some of the pasta cooking water. Add hot pasta to cheese sauce and stir until coated. If it seems too thick, add pasta water, 1 tbsp at a time, until desired consistency achieved. Serve at once.