Za’atar Pesto Mac and Cheese

Total Time Prep: 30 min. Bake: 25 min.
Yield 16 servings
Test Kitchen Approved
Za’atar pesto mac and cheese proves that unexpected ingredients can elevate even the most cherished recipes.

Ingredients

  • ZA'ATAR PESTO:
  • 2 cups loosely packed parsley leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves, halved
  • 2 teaspoons za'atar seasoning
  • 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, toasted
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • MAC AND CHEESE:
  • 1 pound uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2-1/2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1-1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1-1/2 cups crumbled feta cheese

Directions

  1. Place parsley, garlic and za'atar in a food processor; cover and pulse until chopped. Add nuts; cover and process until blended. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain; set aside.
  3. Meanwhile, in a large sauce pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, whisk until smooth. Gradually add in milk, bring to a simmer. Cook until thickened, 3-4 minutes, whisking occasionally. Stir in cheddar, cream cheese; mix until cheese has melted. Stir in cooked macaroni, prepared pesto, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  4. Transfer mixture to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish; sprinkle with feta. Bake until cheese is bubbly and edges are golden brown, 25-30 minutes. If desired, sprinkle with additional feta, parsley and pepper just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

3/4 cup: 367 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 511mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.

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