Mac & Cheese Recipe
Aged cheddar cheese sauce with mozzarella, romano, and Parmesan cheeses, mixed with smoked country ham, roasted tomato, cavatappi noodles and topped with crushed croutons. Served with grilled ciabatta
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Cheese Sauce
Pasta and Add-ins
Bread
Method
Prepare the Pasta
- 1
Cook the Cavatappi
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cavatappi noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
- 2
- 3
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add Cheeses
Reduce heat to low and stir in the aged cheddar, mozzarella, romano, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
- 5
Season the Sauce
Add salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to the cheese sauce, mixing well.
Combine and Bake
- 6
Mix Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cavatappi, diced smoked ham, and roasted tomatoes. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- 7
Transfer to Baking Dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish and top evenly with crushed croutons.
- 8
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.