Ultimate Mac and Cheese – loaded with Havarti, White Cheddar, and Parmesan and topped with yummy Garlic Parmesan Breadcrumbs. Makes a ton – great for potlucks, parties, and the holidays! There are never any leftovers! Everyone RAVES about this delicious pasta casserole! #pasta #macandcheese #casserole #sidedish #freezermeal
Goodness. Unlike my chiles rellenos, I am so happy about this mac and cheese. It’s two of my favorite cheeses combined (cheddar and havarti) and it’s topped with an herby, cracker crust that’s buttery and crunchy. It’s the side you need to make for Thanksgiving.
The Ultimate Macaroni & Cheese
I call this the Ultimate Mac & Cheese because it is loaded with three types of cheese – Havarti, White Cheddar and Parmesan. YUM! The Mac & Cheese is topped with yummy garlic parmesan breadcrumbs. Seriously delicious.
We LOVED this Ultimate Mac & Cheese. The combination of cheeses was perfect. My favorite part of the whole casserole might have been the yummy garlic parmesan breadcrumbs. Perfection!
How to Make Mac & Cheese from Scratch
Most of the work for this Ultimate Mac & Cheese is done on the stovetop. Start with boiling the pasta. While the pasta is cooking, make the cheese sauce. Melt a stick of butter in a large saucepan. Add flour and cook a few minutes. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until the sauce starts to thicken. Add grated havarti cheese, white cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. Remove from heat. Stir in salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth. Add cooked pasta. Pour mixture into a baking dish and top with fresh breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic, and parmesan. Pop the dish in the oven just to crisp up the breadcrumbs.
- Can Mac & Cheese be made in advance? Yes! You can make this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake the casserole at 350ºF until warm and bubbly, about 30 to 45 minutes.
- Can Mac & Cheese be frozen? Yes! You can assemble the casserole and freeze unbaked for later. To bake after freezing, thaw completely and bake at 350ºF for 30 to 45 minutes, until warm and bubbly.
- You can use any pasta you prefer. Elbow, penne, rigatoni would all work great.
- I used Havarti, white cheddar, and parmesan cheese in this recipe. Feel free to use any of your favorite cheeses.
- This recipe uses fresh breadcrumbs, not the canned breadcrumbs.
- I usually use day old french bread to make breadcrumbs.
- To make fresh breadcrumbs, place bread in a food processor and process until crumbly.
Havarti – Cheese Review
FAQ
What is a good cheese to mix with cheddar?
Does Havarti taste like cheddar?
What meat goes best with Havarti cheese?
Is Havarti or Gouda better for grilled cheese?
What type of cheese goes with Havarti cheese?
This versatile cheese can be enjoyed in a myriad of ways, making it a delightful addition to any cheeseboard or culinary creation. Swiss Cheese: Havarti is similar to Swiss cheese in terms of its mild flavor and the presence of small holes throughout. Monterey Jack: It shares a creamy, buttery texture with Monterey Jack cheese.
What is the difference between Cheddar and havarti?
Texture-wise, cheddar is smooth and firm, while Havarti is creamy and soft. Cheddar is typically an orange color due to annatto added during the production, while Havarti is usually ivory.
Does grilled cheese have Cheddar & Havarti?
It’s full of freshly grated Cheddar and major flavor. So, if you’re up for a flavor adventure, just sub this in for the Cheddar and Havarti and cook as directed in the recipe card! One of the best qualities a grilled cheese can possess is a melty, ooey-gooey, stretchy interior. To obtain this, you’ll need a cheese on the creamy side.
What does Havarti cheese taste like?
The taste of Havarti cheese is often described as a delightful gastronomic experience. It starts off with a mild, smooth, and slightly tangy flavor that is universally appealing. Its buttery undertones and creamy consistency lend it a mouthfeel that is both indulgent and satisfying.