BellaVitano Mac and Cheese with Mushrooms
We saw Kaleena make this dish in the Wisconsin (cheese!) season of Top Chef ™. Cheese Selection: The combination of BellaVitano and Gruyère provides the distinctive nutty flavor of BellaVitano while ensuring smooth melting properties. Wine Pairing: Since merlot is cooked into the mushrooms, consider serving the same wine with the dish. Make-Ahead Tip: The mushrooms and breadcrumbs can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Reheat mushrooms gently before serving. Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is crucial for achieving the perfect sauce consistency - don't skip this step. Temperature Control: Keep the cheese sauce warm but not boiling once the cheese is added to prevent breaking or graininess.
- Time: 55 min
Source: Relaxed Recipes
Ingredients
- PREPARE THE COMPONENTS
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta until 1-2
- Make the merlot mushrooms: Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medi
- Build the mushroom sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add rem
- Prepare herb breadcrumbs: Preheat oven to 375°F. Toss panko with melted butter,
- CHEESE SAUCE
- Create the roux: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whi
- Build the base sauce: Gradually whisk in the warm milk, adding it slowly to prev
- Add the cheeses: Remove from heat completely. Whisk in the cream cheese first un
- FINAL ASSEMBLY
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce along with ½
- Incorporate mushrooms: Fold in three-quarters of the merlot mushrooms, reserving
- Serve immediately: Divide among warmed bowls or plates. Top with remaining mushr