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White Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chickpea Pasta

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chickpea Pasta
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White Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Chickpea Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that elevates the classic mac and cheese by using protein-packed chickpea pasta for a nutritious twist. The rich white cheddar cheese sauce coats every bite perfectly, offering a deliciously wholesome meal that is gluten-free and easy to prepare. Ideal for families or anyone craving a hearty, cheesy meal with a plant-based protein boost.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces chickpea pasta
  • 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups milk (whole or preferred choice)
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chickpea Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the chickpea pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if needed.
  2. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to eliminate any raw flour taste.
  3. Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in shredded white cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked chickpea pasta into the cheese sauce gently to coat every piece evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until reaching a creamy consistency.
  5. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Transfer to serving bowls or a casserole dish. Garnish if desired and enjoy this creamy, protein-packed twist on a classic comfort food.

Notes

  • Use sharp white cheddar for deeper flavor and better melting.
  • Cook chickpea pasta al dente to ensure it holds the sauce well.
  • Whisk constantly while making the roux and adding milk to avoid lumps.
  • Add cheese off the heat to keep the sauce smooth and prevent graininess.
  • Customize with spices, veggies, or extra protein as desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: white cheddar mac and cheese, chickpea pasta, gluten-free mac and cheese, protein-packed mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, plant-based protein, healthy comfort food

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/white-cheddar-mac-and-cheese-with-chickpea-pasta/