Savory Herb Mac and Cheese

Name: Savory Herb Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 20 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

Be the First to Review!

If you're on the hunt for a comforting dish that combines the creaminess of classic mac and cheese with the fresh taste of herbs, you've found it. This Savory Herb Mac and Cheese is perfect for anyone looking to elevate a simple dish with a touch of sophistication and loads of flavor.

Save Print Jump to Recipe

Ingredients for Savory Herb Mac and Cheese

Elbow macaroni serves as the classic base, providing a chewy and satisfying texture. Butter is the key to starting our rich roux, which thickens the sauce. All-purpose flour helps to create a creamy cheese sauce by acting as a thickening agent when combined with butter. Whole milk brings a rich, smooth base to the sauce. Sharp cheddar cheese offers a bold, tangy flavor, while Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory punch. Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder season the dish perfectly, enhancing all the other flavors. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and chives introduce a bright, fresh finish that balances the richness of the cheese.

Tips & Tricks

For a smoother sauce, make sure your milk is at room temperature before adding it to the roux.
Experiment with different cheese combinations, like Gruyère or Fontina, for a more complex flavor.
If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the top and broil until golden.

Serving Suggestions

This mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. If you're serving it as a side, it complements grilled meats or a hearty roast perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?: Yes, you can use dried herbs if fresh ones aren't available. Just use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How can I make this gluten-free?: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta.
Can I make this ahead of time?: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently, adding a splash of milk to bring it back to life.

Savory Herb Mac and Cheese Recipe Walkthrough

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions. Once it's just right, drain it and set aside. In the meantime, grab a medium saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. As soon as it’s melted, sprinkle in the flour. Whisk this continuously for about two minutes until it turns golden and bubbly.

Next, slowly add the milk, whisking diligently to ensure no lumps form. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Turn the heat down to low and stir in both the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, letting them melt into a smooth, luscious sauce. Season it with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

With the sauce ready, add the cooked macaroni and give it a good toss to coat every piece. Finally, stir in the fresh basil, parsley, and chives, mixing until everything’s well combined. Serve this deliciousness immediately, garnished with extra herbs if you’re feeling fancy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Combines the richness of cheese with the freshness of herbs.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Customizable with your favorite herbs.

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni

4 tbsp unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly.

3. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth.

5. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add the cooked macaroni and toss to coat.