Description
- This Swiss Chard and Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy twist on a classic comfort dish. With the earthy flavor of Swiss chard and the rich, caramelized taste of roasted garlic, it’s a hearty and flavorful version of mac and cheese that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
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8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, peeled
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2 cups Swiss chard, chopped
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Roast Garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place garlic cloves on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until soft and caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.
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Cook Pasta: While the garlic roasts, cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté Swiss Chard: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped Swiss chard and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 5 minutes.
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Add Cheese: Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and roasted garlic (squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins). Stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes, if using.
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Combine: Add the cooked pasta and sautéed Swiss chard to the cheese sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.
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Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired
Notes
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Make it Vegan: Use plant-based butter, milk, and dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
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Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other greens like spinach or kale in place of Swiss chard.
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg