Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Macaroni is a culinary delight that promises a symphony of flavors dancing on your palate π§π . This recipe, originating from the local newspaper, offers a tantalizing blend of creamy goat cheese, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all enveloped in a luscious white sauce πΏ. Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to potluck gatherings, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 48 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 3 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1/2 lb |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
| Flour | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Sun-dried tomato | 1 |
| Roasted garlic | 1 |
| Thyme | 8 sprigs |
| Oregano | 1 sprig |
| Mascarpone cheese | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Garlic clove | 1 |
| Parmesan cheese | 2 tbsp |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Parsley | 1 handful |
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C).
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Cook Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until it is just tender. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and rinse it under cold water. Ensure it is well-drained and set it aside.
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Prepare White Sauce: In a heavy saucepan, melt the butter over moderate heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir to combine. Cook the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until it forms a roux. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly. Simmer the sauce for 10 to 20 minutes until the flour taste has dissipated. Strain the sauce into a bowl and allow it to cool.
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Prepare Sun-Dried Tomatoes: While the sauce is cooling, soak the sun-dried tomatoes in hot water until they soften. Once softened, slice them into 1/4-inch strips.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and half of the prepared white sauce. Crumble the goat cheese over the top, then add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, thyme, and oregano. Gently mix everything together by hand.
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Add Mascarpone and Cream: Incorporate the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream into the macaroni mixture. Season with black pepper and salt to taste. Ensure the mixture has a soft consistency, adding more white sauce if necessary.
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Assemble and Bake: Transfer the macaroni mixture into a 10-inch baking dish. In a food processor, grind the bread and garlic together. Add the olive oil and parsley, pulsing briefly to combine. Be cautious not to over-blend, as this may cause the bread crumbs to turn green. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the macaroni.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is heated through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve the Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Macaroni hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
With its creamy texture, robust flavors, and irresistible aroma, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight meal or showcased at a potluck gathering, each bite is a culinary journey worth savoring. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and indulge in the culinary masterpiece that is Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Macaroni! π½οΈπ
