Caprese Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

Macaroni

8 ounces

Unsalted butter

2 tablespoons

All-purpose flour

2 tablespoons

Milk

2 cups

Mozzarella cheese, shredded

2 cups

Cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup

Fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/2 cup

Salt

to taste

Black pepper

to taste

Extra basil leaves, for garnish

for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until all the pasta is well coated.
6. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the Caprese Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch.