Cheddar Mushroom Macaroni

Creamy, comforting, and packed with savory flavors, this Cheddar Mushroom Macaroni recipe is a glorious twist on classic mac and cheese. Featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a silky cheddar cheese sauce, this dish is elevated by the earthy richness of sautéed white mushrooms and aromatic garlic. A touch of paprika adds subtle warmth, while a golden roux ensures the sauce is irresistibly smooth. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, this one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent weekends. Serve it as a standalone vegetarian meal or pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying dinner. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Elbow macaroni
• 3 tablespoons Butter
• 8 ounces White mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 2 cups Milk
• 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground paprika
• 2 tablespoons Parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they release their juices and are lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute. Remove the mushrooms and garlic from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.

Step 4

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken.

Step 5

Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and the sauce is smooth.

Step 6

Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Add the sautéed mushrooms and garlic back into the skillet, and mix them into the cheese sauce.

Step 8

Fold the cooked macaroni into the skillet, ensuring all the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Step 9

Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1211.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2349.8

Total Fat 121.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 73.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.4g
Cholesterol 382.6mg	0%
Sodium 4226.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 207.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.7g	0%
Total Sugars 36.0g
Protein 110.6g	0%

Vitamin D 292.1IU	0%
Calcium 2248.2mg	0%
Iron 11.2mg	0%
Potassium 1819.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 46.2%

Protein: 18.7%

Carbs: 35.1%