Description
Irish Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors with creamy textures, making it a standout dish for any occasion. This gourmet twist on traditional macaroni cheese features authentic Irish ingredients like Irish butter and a blend of aged Irish cheeses, delivering an indulgent experience that’s sure to please. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this creamy mac will become a favorite. With its smooth sauce and delightful cheesiness, it’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or any time you crave something comforting and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 4 tbsp Irish unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 bay leaf
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 7 oz grated Kerrygold Aged Cheddar
- 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
- 7 oz grated Dubliner cheese
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the Irish butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes while whisking.
- Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer with the bay leaf and ground cloves. Cook on low for about 25 minutes.
- Remove from heat, discard the bay leaf, and whisk in the aged cheddar and Swiss until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce in a large bowl. Transfer to a cast iron skillet or casserole dish, mixing in half of the Dubliner cheese before topping with the remaining cheese.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg