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Homemade Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese image

Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese

This Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese is a vibrant twist on a classic! Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, drained well
  • 1/3 cup chopped black olives or kalamata olives
  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh basil plus more for garnish
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
  • 2 Tbsp butter plus more for baking dish
  • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup chopped red onion
  • 1 large clove garlic finely minced
  • 3 Tbsp flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 6 oz crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
  4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt, pepper, chopped basil, and dried oregano.
  5. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated. Gently fold in the drained fire-roasted tomatoes and chopped olives, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a little butter and pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  7. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped fresh basil before serving. Enjoy this Mediterranean twist on a classic comfort food!

Notes

  • Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for added flavor.
  • Make ahead by preparing the dish up to baking and refrigerate for 24 hours.
  • Freezes well; assemble and freeze for up to 3 months.