Pesto and mac and cheese go together like spaghetti and meatballs- who knew? This Pesto Mac & Cheese has a secret ingredient- creamy Parmesan pesto sauce, that brings another cheesy, herby layer of flavor. This recipe is also easier, since you don't have to make a cream sauce from scratch. Just toss cooked pasta with the creamy Parmesan pesto sauce and some Cheddar cheese and spoon into a baking dish. Top with a mixture of Parmesan and panko and bake until hot and bubbling and the topping is crisp and golden brown.
Step 1
Cook and drain the pasta according to the package directions. While the pasta is cooking, heat the oven to 400°F. Stir the panko, Parmesan cheese and oil in a small bowl.
Step 2
Spray a shallow 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray. Place the cooked pasta into a large bowl. Add the sauce and cheese and toss to coat. Spoon the mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle with the panko mixture.
Step 3
Bake for 25 minutes or until hot and the panko mixture is golden brown.
