White Bean Mac and Cheese

Preparation Steps

1. Cook the macaroni

   Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the whole wheat macaroni and cook until the center is barely firm, about 1 minute less than the package timing. Reserve some cooking water, then drain.

2. Soften the aromatics

   Warm the olive oil in a wide saucepan over medium heat. Cook the onion for about 7 minutes until soft and lightly golden, then stir in the garlic and smoked paprika for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

3. Blend the bean base

   Blend half of the cooked cannellini beans with the milk and Dijon mustard until completely smooth. A hand blender, countertop blender, or food processor will all work.

4. Make the cheese sauce

   Pour the bean mixture into the saucepan and simmer gently for about 4 minutes, stirring until it thickens and coats a spoon. Lower the heat, add the cheddar cheese, and stir until fully melted; keep the sauce below a simmer so it stays smooth.

5. Finish the mac and cheese

   Fold in the macaroni and remaining cooked cannellini beans. Add reserved cooking water as needed for a sauce that coats the pasta. Warm over low heat until the pasta is tender and the beans are hot, then season with salt and black pepper and serve.