- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Servings: 20
- Nutrition per serving (1 of 20): Calories 122, Total Fat 10 g, Saturated Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 4 g, Dietary Fiber 0 g, Sugar 1 g, Protein 5 g, Cholesterol 33 mg, Sodium 165 mg
- Time required: Total: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Resting time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
Parmesan Cups:
- 1 1/4 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Macaroni and Cheese:
- 1/3 cup onion, diced
- 1 sprig thyme leaves, fresh
- 3 sprigs fresh dill
- 1 sprig fresh oregano leaves
- 2 tablespoons parsley leaves, chopped fresh
- 1 allspice berry
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sharp Vermont Cheddar, shredded
- 1/4 cup shredded Cotswold cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 1 cup cooked macaroni
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Making the Parmesan Cups: Fire up a small nonstick skillet over medium heat and get ready to create edible magic! Place tart molds upside down nearby. Drop about 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese into the pan as a quarter-sized mound. Watch it melt and bubble enticingly, then flip and cook until golden brown. Quickly drape the lacy cheese over an inverted tart mold, pressing gently with another to form a perfect cup. Let it cool fully, then unmold and trim edges for flawless presentationinspire your guests with these crispy, cheesy cradles!
- Preparing the Macaroni and Cheese: In a heavy saucepan, infuse flavor by simmering diced onion, thyme, dill, oregano, chopped parsley, allspice, bay leaf, garlic, and heavy cream until it boils, then reduce to half volume for rich intensity. Strain, return cream to low heat, and whisk in shredded Cheddar, Cotswold, and Parmesan until velvety smooth. Fold in cooked macaroni, seasoning boldly with salt and pepperthis luxurious filling will steal the show!
- Assembling: Generously spoon the creamy, herb-kissed macaroni and cheese into each Parmesan cup. Crown with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for vibrant color and freshness. Serve these irresistible bites at your next gathering and watch them disappearpure comfort elevated to appetizer stardom!
