Who says mac and cheese has to be basic? If you’re ready to take your favorite comfort food to the next level, this Swiss Chard and Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese is going to blow your mind! Creamy, cheesy, with a touch of savory roasted garlic and earthy Swiss chard—this is not your average mac and cheese. It’s rich, indulgent, and the perfect balance of flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance. Trust me, this dish is a game-changer. It’s like a warm, cheesy hug with a twist of green goodness. Prepare to fall in love at first bite!

Why You’ll Love Swiss Chard and Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese

Name: Swiss Chard and Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 head garlic; – 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; – 16 oz elbow pasta; – 2 cloves garlic, minced, divided; – 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped; – Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; – 2 teaspoons lemon zest; – 2 tablespoons lemon juice; – ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; – 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; – 2½ cups whole milk; – 1 cup heavy cream; – Freshly ground nutmeg, to taste; – 1 teaspoon dry mustard; – ½ teaspoon paprika; – 2½ cups Gruyère cheese, grated; – ⅓ cup Panko breadcrumbs; – 1 teaspoon garlic powder; – 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re craving something comforting for yourself or cooking for a group, this dish has you covered. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Whether you serve it as a side dish or the main course, this mac and cheese can do it all.

Budget-Friendly: Swiss chard is an affordable leafy green, and combining it with pantry staples makes this a cost-effective but satisfying meal.

Quick and Easy: With a few simple ingredients and some stirring, you can create this delicious dish in no time. It’s easy, yet special enough for any occasion.

Customizable: Swap Swiss chard for spinach or kale, or even add extra cheese for that ultimate indulgence. This recipe is all about making it your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of creamy cheese and roasted garlic will win over even the pickiest eaters. It’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next meal.

Ingredients in Swiss Chard and Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese

This mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and a little bit fancy with the addition of Swiss chard and roasted garlic. Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:

Pasta: The classic base of any mac and cheese! Elbow macaroni is a traditional choice, but you can use any pasta you love.

Swiss Chard: This leafy green adds both color and nutrition. Its slightly bitter flavor balances beautifully with the rich cheese sauce.

Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella creates that perfect meltiness and sharp, savory flavor that makes mac and cheese irresistible.

Garlic: Roasted garlic brings a mellow, sweet flavor to the dish that perfectly complements the richness of the cheese.

Butter: For a silky, smooth cheese sauce that coats every noodle.

Flour: Helps thicken the sauce and make it perfectly creamy.

Milk and Cream: The base of your creamy sauce, adding richness and depth of flavor.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Parmesan Cheese: For an extra layer of savory flavor and that crispy, golden topping.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Swiss Chard and Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it nice and warm, ready to bake your mac and cheese to perfection.

Roast the Garlic: Take your garlic cloves, wrap them in foil with a drizzle of olive oil, and roast them in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until soft and fragrant. This step makes the garlic sweet and mellow—so good!

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Swiss Chard: While the pasta is cooking, sauté the Swiss chard in a little olive oil in a large skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until wilted and tender. Set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the roasted garlic (mashed into a paste) and cheese, continuing to whisk until everything is smooth and melty. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta, Swiss Chard, and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and sautéed Swiss chard into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly.

Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra crispy, golden crust.

Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Finishing Touches: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the cheese sauce set and make it easier to serve.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve your creamy Swiss Chard and Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese warm, and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 550

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Swiss Chard and Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to round out your meal. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Serve it alongside a crisp, fresh salad to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
Pair it with roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for a comforting, veggie-packed meal.
Enjoy it with a side of garlic bread for a true indulgence.
For a lighter option, serve it with a citrusy side salad to cut through the creamy cheese.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

If you prefer a more tangy flavor, add a little bit of Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce for extra depth.
Feel free to experiment with different greens like spinach or kale instead of Swiss chard.
For a crunchier topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or panko over the top before baking.
This dish can be made ahead of time! Assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven to bake.

FAQs

1 Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe
Absolutely! You can try Gruyère, fontina, or gouda for a different cheese flavor.

2 Can I use regular garlic instead of roasted garlic
While roasted garlic adds a sweet, mellow flavor, you can use regular garlic if needed. Just sauté it with the onions for a sharper garlic taste.

3 Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time
Yes! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

4 Can I freeze this mac and cheese
Yes, this mac and cheese freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven before serving.

5 Can I add meat to this recipe
Yes! Crispy bacon or cooked sausage would make a great addition to this mac and cheese.

6 Can I make this dish gluten-free
To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free option, like cornstarch or rice flour.

7 How do I make the sauce thicker
If you want a thicker sauce, simply cook it for a few more minutes to reduce it, or add a little extra cheese to help thicken it up.

8 Can I use plant-based milk in this recipe
Yes, you can substitute the milk with a plant-based option, like almond milk or oat milk. Just be sure to use one with a neutral flavor.

9 How can I make this dish spicier
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce or mix in some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

10 How do I store leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Conclusion

This Swiss Chard and Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese is a comforting, indulgent dish that takes your classic mac and cheese to a whole new level. With roasted garlic, Swiss chard, and a creamy cheese sauce, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy every time. Enjoy!