Kale Pesto Mac n’ Cheese with Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Introduction

This Pesto Mac n’ Cheese is a vibrant twist on a classic comfort dish, combining whole wheat pasta with creamy cheddar and fresh kale pesto. Bright cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor, making it a wholesome, delicious meal perfect for any day.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups Whole Wheat Fusilli Pasta
• 1 tablespoon Butter
• 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour
• 1 cup Milk
• 1 1/2 cups White Cheddar Cheese
• 2 tablespoons Kale Pesto
• 1 cup Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes
• Salt, to taste
• Ground Black Pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat fusilli pasta according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and turns a semi-golden color.
3. Step 3: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Step 4: Add the white cheddar cheese and stir until it has fully melted into a creamy sauce. Stir in the kale pesto until evenly combined.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat thoroughly. Mix in the heirloom cherry tomatoes, then season with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Serve the pesto mac n’ cheese immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• For a nuttier flavor, toast the pasta briefly before boiling or add toasted pine nuts on top before serving.
• Substitute kale pesto with basil pesto if preferred for a classic taste.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version without compromising creaminess.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will work well for this dish and hold the sauce nicely.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives, and ensure your pesto is free from cheese or replace it with a nut-based pesto.

Kale Pesto Mac n’ Cheese with Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 122 reviews

• Author: Jack
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A wholesome and flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese featuring whole wheat fusilli pasta tossed in a creamy white cheddar cheese sauce infused with vibrant kale pesto and juicy heirloom cherry tomatoes. This comforting dish balances nutrition and taste, perfect for a cozy meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 1 1/2 cups Whole Wheat Fusilli Pasta

Sauce

• 1 tablespoon Butter
• 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour
• 1 cup Milk
• 1 1/2 cups White Cheddar Cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons Kale Pesto

Add-ins & Seasoning

• 1 cup Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes, halved
• Salt, to taste
• Ground Black Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour continuously until the mixture turns semi-golden and lump-free, forming a smooth roux.
3. Add Milk and Cheese: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese until it fully melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
4. Incorporate Pesto: Stir in the kale pesto into the cheese sauce to infuse vibrant herbal flavor throughout.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fusilli pasta to the saucepan and stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the cheesy pesto sauce.
6. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Gently fold in the halved heirloom cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Serve the pesto mac n’ cheese immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Use whole milk or 2% milk for a creamier sauce; low-fat versions may alter texture.
• Kale pesto can be substituted with traditional basil pesto if preferred.
• For a smoother sauce, shred the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded varieties.
• Heirloom cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color, but regular cherry tomatoes work as well.
• Whole wheat pasta boosts fiber content, making this dish more nutritious.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Pesto Mac and Cheese, Whole Wheat Pasta, Kale Pesto, Cheesy Pasta, Healthy Mac and Cheese, Vegetarian Pasta