Goat Milk Mac & Cheese

This rich and creamy mac and cheese is made with goat milk for a unique, tangy twist. Topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, it’s the perfect comfort food with a deliciously indulgent flavor.

Ingredients:

• For the Mac & Cheese:
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
  • 2 cups goat milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded goat cheese (creamy or firm, depending on preference)
• For the Crispy Breadcrumb Crust:
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Once melted, whisk in the flour, garlic powder, and mustard powder, and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in the goat milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and goat cheese until melted and smooth.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
4. Prepare the Crispy Breadcrumb Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and grated Parmesan (if using). Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
5. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
   • Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Let the mac and cheese cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with a crunchy breadcrumb crust that adds the perfect texture.

This Goat Milk Mac & Cheese offers a rich, creamy texture with a delicious tang from the goat milk and goat cheese, while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch. It’s comfort food at its finest with a unique twist!