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Are you tired of the same old macaroni and cheese routine? If you’re nodding along, this recipe is your ticket to a delightful change. With a blend of cheddar and cottage cheese, this Olive Garden Mac And Cheese Recipe brings a new level of cheesy joy to your table.

What is Olive Garden Mac And Cheese?

Olive Garden Mac and Cheese is like a big, cozy hug on your plate. It’s simple, tasty, and makes you feel all warm inside. Imagine macaroni covered in a creamy mix of cheddar and cottage cheese—so cheesy and gooey, it’s like a flavor explosion. What makes it extra special is a hint of tanginess from grey Dijon mustard, giving it a little kick.

Tossed in there are bits of finely chopped white onion and fresh parsley for that extra yum. Whether you’re a kitchen pro or just starting out, this recipe is easy-peasy and promises a bowl of pure comfort that everyone will love. It’s the kind of dish that makes any meal feel like a happy, homey feast.

Ingredients Used In Olive Garden Mac And Cheese Recipe

Cooked Elbow Macaroni= 7 cups
Cheddar Cheese= 3 ½ cups
Finely Chopped White Onion= ⅔ cup
Minced Fresh Parsley= 4 tablespoons
Ground Black Pepper= ½ teaspoon
Cottage Cheese= 3 ½ cups
Evaporated Milk= 1 cup
Grey Dijon Mustard= 2 teaspoons
Salt= 1 teaspoon

Step By Step Method For Making the Olive Garden Mac And Cheese

Step 1

In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the chopped onion for about two minutes or until tender. Drain excess liquid.

Step 2

Mix the elbow macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and minced fresh parsley with the cooked onion.

Step 3

Blend the evaporated milk, cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor until smooth.

Step 4

Stir everything together until the macaroni mixture is well combined with the creamy mixture from the blender.

Step 5

To prevent sticking, grease two (1 1/2-quart) baking dishes.

Step 6

Make sure the macaroni and cheese mixture is evenly distributed in the greased baking dish.

Step 7

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

Step 8

Bake the baking dish, uncovered, for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown.

Step 9

Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

Step 10

Make your own homemade Olive Garden mac and cheese and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

1. Preventing Cheese Clumping:

Ensure cheese is at room temperature before use.
Grate the cheese finely for even melting.
Add cheese gradually while stirring continuously.
If using pre-shredded cheese, toss it with a bit of cornstarch.

2. Variations and Substitutions:

Experiment with different cheese blends (e.g., adding Parmesan).
Consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon or diced tomatoes.
For a spicier kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Explore using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
Feel free to get creative and personalize the recipe based on your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I reheat leftover mac and cheese?

Reheat in the oven or microwave. To maintain creaminess, consider adding a splash of milk before reheating.

Can I freeze Olive Garden Mac and Cheese?

While it can be frozen, the texture may change. Consider freezing in individual portions and thawing before reheating.

How do I prevent pasta from sticking together?

Add a bit of olive oil to the cooked pasta, and stir it gently to prevent sticking.

Is it possible to make this Olive Garden Mac And Cheese Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta as a substitute for traditional elbow macaroni.

Final Thoughts

I’m sure this Olive Garden Mac and Cheese recipe will be a hit for you. It’s easy to make, uses simple stuff, and tastes really good with all that cheesy goodness. You can make it for family dinners or when you have friends over—it’s that versatile. So, get your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy your tasty Olive Garden Mac and Cheese. It’s all about making good food without any fuss!

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