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Cheesy Ricotta Mac and Cheese: 1 Secret Ingredient for the Ultimate Comfort Food


  • Author: Ginger
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A luxurious and creamy twist on classic macaroni and cheese using whole-milk ricotta for a light, velvet-smooth texture.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Elbow Macaroni or Shells
  • 15 oz Whole-milk Ricotta Cheese
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar, shredded
  • 1 cup Mozzarella, shredded
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose Flour
  • 3 cups Whole Milk
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Boil pasta in salted water until slightly under al dente, then drain.
  2. Melt butter and whisk in flour to create a light roux.
  3. Slowly add milk, whisking until thickened into a Béchamel sauce.
  4. Melt in the cheddar and mozzarella, then fold in the ricotta cheese.
  5. Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce.
  6. Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.

Notes

High protein from ricotta, extremely creamy texture, and kid-friendly flavor profile.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 520 kcal