Apple-Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Apples and cheddar is a classic combination that works well in this rich and creamy mac & cheese.
- Duration
- Cook Time
- Prep Time
- 4Servings
Ingredients
- 1ÂĽ cup (5 ounces) dry, uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1½ cup small diced, unpeeled, tart green or red apples
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ÂĽ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2ÂĽ cup whole milk
- 1 bay leaf
- 2â…“ cup (10 ounces) shredded sharp white or yellow cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon dry sherry
- â…“ cup plain panko or regular bread crumbs
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease a 1½-quart round casserole; set aside.
2. Cook pasta to al dente, according to package directions. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking; drain well. Return pasta to saucepan, then add apples.
3. Melt butter in medium saucepan. Add onion and cook over medium heat for 3 minutes. Stir in flour; cook and stir for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Slowly stir in milk with wire whisk. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Add bay leaf. Reduce heat to low, and cook sauce for 10 minutes, stirring often.
5. Remove and discard bay leaf. Stir in 2 cups of the cheese and dry sherry. Cook and stir about 1 minute or until cheese is melted. Remove from heat; season to taste with salt and pepper.
6. Add cheese sauce to pasta-apple mixture; gently stir until well combined. Transfer to prepared casserole. Sprinkle with remaining ⅓ cup cheese and panko. Bake, uncovered, at 350° F for 30 minutes, or just until heated through and lightly browned. Stand about 5 minutes before serving.
Source: U.S. Apple Association
