If you’re craving a creamy, cheesy comfort food that sings with the rich flavor of garlic and the tangy punch of Parmesan, this Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe is your new best friend. It’s not just any mac and cheese; it’s an elevated, irresistible twist on a classic that combines perfectly cooked cavatappi pasta enveloped in a luscious blend of melted cheeses, smooth cream, and just the right hint of garlic. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or impressing friends at a dinner party, this dish will quickly become your go-to for satisfying those cheesy cravings with elegance and warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe lies in its simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital part, from the buttery richness to the sharp Parmesan kick and the creamy smoothness, building layers of flavor and texture that make every bite unforgettable.
- 16 ounces cavatappi pasta: The perfect twisty shape to hold onto every bit of cheesy sauce.
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter: Adds creamy richness and a silky base for the sauce.
- 5 teaspoons garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic depth.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to a luscious, clingy consistency.
- 2 cups (490 g / 16 ounces) whole milk: Brings creaminess and a smooth texture to the cheese sauce.
- 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream: Makes the sauce rich and velvety.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor for that perfect savory punch.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances flavors and elevates the cheese notes.
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard: Adds a subtle tangy depth that sharpens the cheese flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild kick and rounds out the spices.
- ½ block (4 ounces) cream cheese, cubed: Blends in for extra creaminess and a slight tang.
- 1 ½ cups (169.5 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided: Melts into gooey, stretchy goodness.
- 1 ½ cups (150 g) parmesan cheese, grated, divided: Provides sharp, nutty notes that define this mac and cheese.
- 1 cup (108 g) plain breadcrumbs: Offers a crispy, golden topping for delightful texture contrast.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky sweetness and beautiful color to the topping.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Gives a fresh, vibrant finish with a pop of green.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your cavatappi pasta in plenty of salted water until it’s just al dente. This slightly firm texture is essential because the pasta will continue to cook once baked, ensuring it doesn’t get mushy but stays perfectly tender to soak up the creamy sauce. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Roux and Garlic Base
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat and saute the minced garlic until it’s fragrant and golden, about a minute or two. Then whisk in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. Cooking the roux for a couple of minutes helps remove the raw flour taste and gives the base a lovely nutty flavor.
Step 3: Whisk in Milk and Cream
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer as it thickens. This creamy base is what makes the sauce so luscious and indulgent, ready to cloak every twist of pasta in cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Season and Add Cream Cheese
Add the garlic powder, kosher salt, ground mustard, and black pepper to enrich the flavor profile. Then, stir in the cubed cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated, which adds incredible velvety texture and tanges that deepen the overall taste complexity.
Step 5: Melt the Cheeses
Reduce the heat to low and gradually fold in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, reserving some of each for the topping. Stir gently but thoroughly to melt everything into a smooth, gooey sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Pour your perfectly cooked cavatappi pasta into the cheese sauce, mixing everything together to ensure each piece is generously coated. The sauce clings wonderfully to the spirals, hugging every curve for maximum cheesy delight.
Step 7: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
Mix the plain breadcrumbs with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle in the paprika for a little color and sweetness. This topping will bake into a crispy, golden crust that adds irresistible contrast to the creamy interior.
Step 8: Bake until Bubbling and Golden
Transfer your cheesy pasta mixture to a buttered baking dish, spread the breadcrumb topping evenly over the surface, and bake in a preheated oven until the top is golden brown and bubbling hot—this usually takes about 20 minutes. The oven melts the cheese fully and crisps up the topping for that perfect finish.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley sprinkled over the top adds a beautiful green contrast and a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese. If you like, a light drizzle of chili oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can bring a playful heat to this comforting dish.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables, balancing the richness with fresh and earthy flavors. Serve alongside grilled chicken or seared steak for a hearty, satisfying meal that will please any crowd.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving this mac and cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets topped with the breadcrumb crust. It makes for a cozy presentation perfect for dinner parties or a special family gathering. You can also stir in cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to keep portions for later indulgence. Freeze in a suitable container, covered tightly, for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your leftovers gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out and uncover near the end to refresh the crispy topping. A splash of milk or cream before reheating can help restore the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cavatappi is ideal for holding the sauce, elbow macaroni, shells, or rotini will also work beautifully. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta type.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
While the traditional Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe relies heavily on dairy for its signature flavor and texture, you can substitute with plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese alternatives. The flavor will be different but still delicious!
Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?
Yes! Adding cooked chicken, bacon, or even sautéed mushrooms can transform this mac and cheese into a more filling entree. Just mix in your choice of protein before the baking step.
What’s the best way to make the breadcrumb topping extra crispy?
Mixing the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top helps them brown evenly and crisp up nicely. Broiling for the last few minutes can also give an extra crunch.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently and whisk before combining with pasta for best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this incredible Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe in your culinary arsenal, you’re all set to delight your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to share a bite. Its rich, garlicky, and cheesy flavors blend perfectly with the crispy topping to create the ultimate comfort food experience. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a beloved classic in your recipe rotation—so go ahead, dive in, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy forkful!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 27 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese recipe features tender cavatappi pasta enveloped in a rich, garlicky cheese sauce made with a blend of mozzarella, parmesan, and cream cheese. Enhanced with garlic powder, ground mustard, and paprika, this comforting dish is topped with crispy breadcrumbs and fresh parsley for added texture and flavor. Perfect as a decadent main or side dish to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounces cavatappi pasta
Cheese Sauce
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter
- 5 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (490 g / 16 ounces) whole milk
- 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ block (4 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
- 1 ½ cups (169.5 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 ½ cups (150 g) parmesan cheese, grated, divided
Topping
- 1 cup (108 g) plain breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter Roux: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the melted butter and garlic, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring continuously.
- Whisk in Dairy: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season and Add Cream Cheese: Stir in the garlic powder, kosher salt, ground mustard, black pepper, and cubed cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add Cheeses: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the noodles evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the plain breadcrumbs with paprika.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use whole milk and heavy cream for the creamiest sauce; lower-fat milk substitutes may affect texture.
- For a more pronounced garlic flavor, increase the garlic powder or add roasted garlic.
- To make breadcrumbs, pulse plain bread slices in a food processor until coarse crumbs form.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
