Double Dutch Mac Cheese with Chard

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and flavorful Double Dutch Mac Cheese with Chard. This recipe puts a gourmet twist on classic macaroni and cheese by blending sharp cheddar, smoky Gouda, and nutty Parmesan for a rich and velvety sauce. The addition of sautéed Swiss chard not only delivers a nutrient-packed boost but also adds a subtle earthiness that perfectly balances the creamy, cheesy goodness. Crispy panko breadcrumbs create a golden topping, elevating the dish from weeknight staple to dinner party star. Ready in under an hour, this baked mac and cheese masterpiece is the perfect blend of indulgence and sophistication—ideal for cozy family dinners or special gatherings.

Nutriscore Rating: 56/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 400 grams elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 pieces garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1.5 cups Gouda cheese, shredded
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 250 grams Swiss chard, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 0.75 cup panko breadcrumbs

Directions

Step 1

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3

Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.

Step 4

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened.

Step 5

Stir in the Dijon mustard, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.

Step 6

Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, Gouda cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 7

In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped Swiss chard and sauté for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 8

Combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and sautéed Swiss chard in a large mixing bowl. Mix until evenly coated.

Step 9

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and transfer the macaroni mixture into it.

Step 10

Sprinkle the top with panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 12

Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Double Dutch Mac Cheese with Chard!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2219.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5492.3

Total Fat 325.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 183.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.9g
Cholesterol 919.4mg	0%
Sodium 7236.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 415.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.0g	0%
Total Sugars 55.3g
Protein 208.5g	0%

Vitamin D 415.0IU	0%
Calcium 4317.4mg	0%
Iron 24.9mg	0%
Potassium 2495.1mg	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: 54.0%

Protein: 15.4%

Carbs: 30.6%