Stovetop Avocado Mac and Cheese
User Reviews
4.3
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Course
Side Dish, Main Course
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Cuisine
American, Vegetarian
Stovetop Avocado Mac and Cheese
Description
Stovetop Avocado Mac and Cheese starts with boiled elbow macaroni cooked until al dente. Separately, a creamy avocado sauce made by blending peeled avocados, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper provides a smooth, slightly tangy coating for the pasta. A classic cheese sauce made by whisking butter and flour to a paste, then adding milk and stirring in shredded pepper jack cheese, adds creamy richness and gently melted spiciness.
The heat melts the cheese and thickens the sauce, which when combined with the lime-avocado blend and macaroni creates a uniquely creamy and flavorful dish with a balance of smooth textures and bright notes. Fresh avocado chunks garnish the top for additional creaminess and visual appeal.
This recipe suits those seeking a twist on conventional mac and cheese, offering herbaceous and citrus undertones alongside the melty cheese. It's ideal as a main or side dish served warm. The lime juice not only enhances flavor but also keeps the avocado sauce from browning, preserving its vibrant green color and freshness throughout serving.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces dry elbow macaroni
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 avocado peeled and pitted
- 2 tablespoons lime juice fresh
- 1/3 cup cilantro chopped, fresh
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups pepper jack cheese shredded
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- avocado for garnish, if desired, fresh chunks
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Salt the water and add in macaroni. Stir and cook until Al Dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, make the avocado sauce by placing the garlic, avocados, lime juice, cilantro, salt and pepper into a food processor or blender. Process until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- To make the cheese sauce, place butter in a small saucepan and heat over medium heat. When butter is melted, whisk in flour to create a paste. Whisk in milk until smooth. Stir with a wooden spoon until the sauce starts to thicken. Add in Pepper Jack cheese and stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Place macaroni in a large bowl. Pour the avocado sauce over the macaroni and stir until well coated. Add the cheese sauce and stir until macaroni is coated and creamy. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve warm. Garnish with fresh avocado chunks, if desired.
- Note-the lime juice keeps the avocado from browning. The mac and cheese is best eaten the first day, but it is still good the second day. The pasta may turn slightly brown, but not bad. If you want a milder flavor, you can use Monterey Jack or White Cheddar Cheese.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.3
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