As we’ve learned from every holiday movie ever, the true magic of the season isn’t about what’s waiting under the tree, it’s about the people gathered around it. We couldn’t agree more – but opening that perfect present can be pure joy as well. That’s why this year, we’re embracing the best-of-both experience: something to unwrap, shared with someone special.
Want in? Just follow this out-of-the-gift-box approach, starting with a Le Creuset Heritage Rectangular Dish. It’s exactly what you need for the delish recipe below. Bake the mac ‘n’ cheese, bring it to share, then leave the bakeware behind. It’ll be a reminder of the best gift of all (your friendship, duh).
Read on for Le Creuset’s twist on a classic that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) box medium pasta shells or elbow macaroni
6 tablespoons butter, divided
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 quart whole milk
8 ounces sharp white cheddar, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
2½ cups grated yellow cheddar
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons parsley, minced
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Boil pasta in generously salted water until al dente. Strain and reserve in the baking dish.
3. In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter over low heat. Add flour, stirring to combine until smooth. Pour in the milk and whisk to combine. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the white cheddar and whisk constantly until smooth and slightly thickened. Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. Pour the milk and cheese mixture over the pasta and stir to coat evenly. Add 2 cups of the grated yellow cheddar and stir to combine. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of yellow cheddar over the top.
6. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic, and parsley. Sprinkle over the pasta.
7. Cut the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into ¼-inch cubes and sprinkle over the breadcrumbs.
8. Place in the oven and bake 40 – 45 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden-brown and the cheese is bubbly.
