The combination of tangy goat cheese, herbs, and golden Panko makes this mac and cheese a standout comfort food dish. The creamy sauce is velvety and rich, perfectly coating every bite of pasta, while the baked topping adds a satisfying crunch and cheesy finish.
This dish is incredibly easy to throw together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Even if you think you’re not a goat cheese fan, the flavor mellows beautifully once baked, creating a subtle, savory twist on the traditional macaroni and cheese.
Full Recipe:
Mac and Cheese Base:
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2 cups dried macaroni (295g)
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¼ cup unsalted butter (57g)
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6 tbsp all-purpose flour (45g)
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1 cup whole milk
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½ cup goat cheese, packed (100g)
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp dried basil
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½ tsp dried rosemary
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp salt
Topping:
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6 tbsp Panko breadcrumbs
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¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (57g)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In salted water, cook macaroni pasta to al dente according to package instructions.
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While pasta cooks, melt ¼ cup butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously to form a roux.
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Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth.
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Stir in goat cheese, oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until cheese is fully melted and sauce thickens (don’t let it boil).
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Drain cooked pasta and mix into cheese sauce until evenly coated.
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Transfer mac and cheese to an 8×8-inch baking dish.
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In a small bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, and melted butter. Evenly sprinkle over pasta.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until topping is golden and crisp.
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Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 543 kcal | Servings: 4
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Goat Cheese Mac and Cheese
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as universally beloved as mac and cheese. It’s creamy, cheesy, warm, and nostalgic. But every now and then, a classic deserves an upgrade. Enter: Goat Cheese Mac and Cheese — a modern, flavorful twist that balances richness with just the right hint of tang. Whether you’re a lifelong goat cheese fan or new to its unique flavor, this version of mac and cheese brings depth, creaminess, and sophistication to the table.
Why Goat Cheese?
Goat cheese, also known as chèvre, is known for its creamy texture, slightly tangy flavor, and high nutritional content. Unlike cheddar or mozzarella, goat cheese has a signature earthiness that pairs exceptionally well with herbs and baked dishes. In this recipe, it becomes the star ingredient, melting into a luxuriously smooth sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
One of the biggest misconceptions about goat cheese is that it’s too overpowering. While that can be true in some applications, this dish is different. Once melted and blended with milk, butter, and herbs, the flavor of goat cheese mellows significantly. The result is not overly “goaty,” but rather subtle and elegant—perfect for those who want to try something different from traditional mac and cheese without straying too far from the familiar.
The Role of Herbs in Enhancing Flavor
What sets this goat cheese mac and cheese apart from others is the use of dried herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme. These herbs bring out the best in goat cheese by balancing its tanginess with aromatic, earthy notes. Herbs don’t just play a supporting role—they transform the entire profile of the dish. They create complexity, making each bite taste like something you’d order in a high-end bistro.
Additionally, the use of herbs gives this dish a Mediterranean flair, aligning well with goat cheese’s culinary roots. If you love flavors like Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence, you’ll feel right at home enjoying this recipe.
Why Baked Mac and Cheese?
There are many mac and cheese recipes out there—some stovetop, some slow cooker—but baked mac and cheese is where texture and flavor collide in the most delightful way. The creamy interior and crispy, golden topping create contrast that elevates the dish from good to unforgettable.
In this recipe, the pasta and cheese sauce are layered into a baking dish and topped with a mixture of Panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Once baked, the topping forms a crunchy, savory crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft, gooey pasta underneath. That “bite” from the crust is essential—it keeps the richness of the cheese from becoming too heavy, providing a perfect balance in every forkful.
Perfecting the Cheese Sauce
The cheese sauce is the heart of any mac and cheese dish, and this one does not disappoint. What makes it unique is its use of a classic roux—melted butter combined with flour—as the base. This thickens the sauce and helps the cheese bind to the pasta.
Milk is added slowly to the roux, creating a creamy béchamel base. Then comes the goat cheese, which melts seamlessly into the sauce. The herbs are added during this stage to infuse the entire sauce with flavor. It’s important not to let the sauce boil; gentle heat ensures that the texture remains smooth and velvety.
For those curious about customizing the sauce, small amounts of other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a bit of sharp cheddar can be added. However, it’s essential not to let those overpower the goat cheese. The beauty of this dish lies in the balance—creamy, tangy, and subtly herbed.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This dish is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare the entire mac and cheese, refrigerate it, and then bake it just before serving. This makes it an excellent choice for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or meal prep.
Once baked, the mac and cheese stores well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to restore moisture.
If you want to freeze it, it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Pairing Suggestions
Because this mac and cheese is rich and flavorful, pairing it with complementary sides or beverages can round out the meal. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots can also balance the plate nicely.
As for beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the tangy goat cheese and herbs. If you prefer beer, a light pale ale or wheat beer will complement the dish without overwhelming it.
For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a light herbal iced tea.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about this dish is its adaptability. Here are some creative variations you can try:
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Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon, pancetta, or grilled chicken for a more filling dish. These additions bring savory depth that pairs well with goat cheese.
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Vegetarian Boost: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
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Swap the Pasta: While macaroni is traditional, other short pastas like rotini, penne, or shells work just as well.
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Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux to accommodate dietary needs.
Who Will Love This Dish
This goat cheese mac and cheese recipe is perfect for:
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Families looking for a fresh twist on a weeknight dinner favorite.
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Foodies who appreciate gourmet ingredients and crave something out of the ordinary.
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Vegetarians seeking hearty, cheesy main dishes.
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Hosts wanting to impress at potlucks or dinner parties.
Even those who usually steer clear of goat cheese will likely enjoy this dish due to its subtle flavor after baking.
Conclusion
Goat Cheese Mac and Cheese is more than just a creative take on a classic—it’s a refined comfort food that blends the familiar with the unexpected. With its creamy texture, aromatic herbs, and crunchy topping, it checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a flavorful side, this recipe delivers depth, elegance, and warmth in every bite.
It’s proof that comfort food can be both indulgent and elevated, all while being incredibly easy to prepare. Keep this recipe in your rotation, and you’ll always have a crowd-pleaser ready to go.
