Avocado Mac and Cheese Recipe

 

Prep: 12 mins

Cook: 13 mins

Total: 25 mins

Servings: 2 to 4 servings

This creamy avocado mac and cheese offers a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. The addition of avocado provides a light, buttery texture without compromising on flavor, making it a perfect option when you want something cheesy yet not overly heavy. Here's how to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

• For the Pasta:
  • 1/2 pound elbow pasta
  • Sea salt (for pasta water)
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 very ripe avocado, pitted
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 4 ounces white cheddar cheese, coarsely shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (divided: half chopped, half whole leaves for garnish)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Steps to Make It

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Gather all ingredients.
   • Finely chop half of the cilantro and set aside the remaining whole leaves for garnish.
   • Coarsely shred the white cheddar cheese.

2. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the elbow pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 9 minutes.
   • Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta.
   • Transfer the drained pasta to a deep bowl and set aside.

3. Prepare the Avocado Mixture:

   • In a small bowl, combine the avocado and lemon juice.
   • Mash the avocado with the back of a fork or a potato masher until smooth and creamy.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce:

   • In the reserved pot, combine the cream cheese, flour, and the reserved pasta water over medium heat.
   • Whisk until blended and smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes.
   • Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
   • Season the sauce with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

5. Combine and Serve:

   • Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and stir until well coated.
   • Stir in the mashed avocado mixture and the chopped cilantro.
   • Garnish with the remaining cilantro leaves and serve immediately.

Tips

• Lemon Juice: Do not skip the lemon juice as it helps prevent the avocado from turning brown, maintaining the vibrant green color of the dish.
• Customizations: Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked bacon, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables to make it more filling.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 397
• Fat: 27g
• Carbs: 29g
• Protein: 12g

Enjoy this creamy and lightened-up version of mac and cheese with the delightful addition of avocado, making it a fresh and satisfying meal!