Gorgonzola Mac & Cheese from Mastro's features tender macaroni pasta enveloped in a creamy, tangy Gorgonzola cheese sauce, topped with crispy golden breadcrumbs for a rich and crunchy finish.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cheese grater
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Oven
- Skillet (for breadcrumbs)
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz (170g) Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Using high-quality Gorgonzola cheese is crucial to achieve the rich, tangy flavor that defines this dish. Whole milk and heavy cream combined create the creamy base necessary to coat the macaroni perfectly. Freshly grated cheeses like sharp white cheddar and Gruyere melt smoothly and add depth to the sauce's texture and taste. For the crispy topping, be sure to toast the panko breadcrumbs in butter until golden brown, enhancing the crunch factor. Your Gorgonzola Mac & Cheese from Mastro's copycat menu will deliver a luxurious blend of creamy, tangy, and crispy elements reminiscent of the original dish.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook macaroni until just al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour to make a roux; cook 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream; cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low; add Gorgonzola, cheddar, and Gruyère; stir until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce; stir to combine.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
- Add panko breadcrumbs; toast until golden brown.
- Remove skillet from heat; mix in Parmesan cheese.
- Evenly sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over macaroni in baking dish.
- Bake 20-25 minutes, or until top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with chopped chives, if desired.
Substitution
Gorgonzola Mac & Cheese from Mastro's copycat menu delivers a luxurious blend of creamy, tangy cheese sauce with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping. If you don't have Gorgonzola cheese on hand, blue cheese or Roquefort can serve as suitable substitutes to maintain that distinctive tangy flavor. Whole milk and heavy cream combine for the rich sauce base, but you can reduce heavy cream slightly for a lighter dish without compromising creaminess. When preparing breadcrumbs, use panko for optimal crunch; however, regular breadcrumbs can be toasted in a skillet to enhance texture. Make sure to use freshly grated cheeses for better melting and flavor, and your mac and cheese will turn out perfectly indulgent every time.
Tips
Ensure macaroni is cooked just al dente to prevent mushiness after baking. Whisk the roux continuously to avoid lumps when adding milk and cream, allowing the sauce to thicken evenly. Melt the Gorgonzola, sharp cheddar, and Gruyere cheeses slowly over low heat for a smooth, creamy cheese sauce without separation. When toasting panko breadcrumbs in butter, watch carefully to achieve an even golden color without burning, as this adds crucial texture to your Gorgonzola Mac & Cheese.
Nutritions
Gorgonzola Mac & Cheese is rich in calcium and protein thanks to its blend of Gorgonzola, cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses, supporting bone health and muscle function. The macaroni pasta provides complex carbohydrates, delivering sustained energy for your day. Whole milk and heavy cream contribute essential fats and vitamins A and D, which aid in nutrient absorption and immune function. This indulgent dish should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high saturated fat and calorie content.
Storage
Store any leftover Gorgonzola Mac & Cheese in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and prevent the toasted breadcrumb topping from becoming soggy. Refrigerate the dish for up to 3-4 days to ensure freshness and optimal flavor retention. When reheating, use an oven or toaster oven to restore the crunchy topping while warming the cheesy pasta evenly for your best eating experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap elbow macaroni for cavatappi or fusilli pasta to better trap the creamy Gorgonzola sauce. Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to lighten the dish without sacrificing richness. For a nutty flavor, replace Gruyere with aged Comte or fontina cheese. Toast the panko breadcrumbs in olive oil infused with garlic instead of butter for a subtle aromatic twist.
Allergies
Gorgonzola Mac & Cheese contains several common allergens, including dairy from whole milk, heavy cream, Gorgonzola, cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses, which can cause reactions in those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The dish also includes wheat-based ingredients like elbow macaroni, all-purpose flour, and panko breadcrumbs that pose a risk for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Your awareness of these allergens is crucial to avoid adverse reactions when enjoying this rich and creamy pasta dish.
Why this recipe?
Gorgonzola Mac & Cheese from Mastro's restaurant delights diners with its rich, creamy blend of sharp gorgonzola cheese and perfectly cooked pasta, delivering a luxurious flavor that stands out from traditional mac and cheese dishes. The expertly balanced tanginess and smooth texture create a memorable gourmet experience that food enthusiasts highly appreciate. Your taste buds will relish the bold, savory taste, making it a dish worth recreating at home for an indulgent, restaurant-quality treat. Crafting this copycat recipe allows you to enjoy the signature Mastro's flavor anytime, impressing guests with an authentic, upscale comfort food classic.