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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Prepare the pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 2
Make the roux
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until it forms a paste (roux).
- 3
Add milk
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking often, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- 4
Add cheeses
Reduce heat to low, then add gruyere, cheddar, and parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- 5
Season the sauce
Add salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine.
Combining and Baking
- 6
Combine pasta and cheese sauce
Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
- 7
Prepare topping
In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and olive oil until the breadcrumbs are coated.
- 8
Assemble and bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Serving
- 9
Serve
Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.