Why You’ll Love this Margarita Knox Blox Recipe
When you take a bite of this Margarita Knox Blox recipe, you’ll instantly understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. This dish combines the comforting flavors of macaroni and cheese with a zesty twist that keeps it exciting.
I love the creamy texture and the burst of freshness from the basil and tomatoes. It’s not just delicious; it’s easy to make, too, which is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked and want to make it again and again!
Ingredients of Margarita Knox Blox
When it comes to whipping up a satisfying dish, the ingredients for Margarita Knox Blox are what make this recipe stand out. You’ve got a delightful mix of creamy cheese, zesty tomatoes, and aromatic basil that plays beautifully together.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a small crowd, having the right ingredients on hand is key. Plus, this dish is a wonderful way to use pantry staples while adding a fresh twist that feels special. So, let’s gather what we need to get started on this cheesy adventure.
Ingredients for Margarita Knox Blox:
- 6 – 7 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more for seasoning)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, plus extra for serving)
- 2 – 3 cups mozzarella cheese
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour (or 2 tablespoons if you want it extra thick)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups milk
Now, let’s talk a bit about these ingredients. The elbow macaroni is a classic choice, but feel free to swap in any pasta you have on hand—just make sure it holds that gooey cheese well.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not experiment with different cheeses? A blend of mozzarella and cheddar could add a delightful sharpness. As for the tomatoes, while the original recipe calls for 14 ounces, if you love that tomato flavor, you could sneak in a bit more.
Don’t worry if you don’t have fresh basil; dried works just fine, but fresh will give you that bright, aromatic pop. Cooking is all about flexibility and making it your own, so don’t stress too much about sticking to the recipe. You got this!
How to Make Margarita Knox Blox
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful process of making Margarita Knox Blox. First things first, you’ll want to get that oven preheated to 375°F. This is an essential step, trust me—nobody likes waiting around for the oven to catch up when you’re ready to feast.
While that’s warming up, grab 6 to 7 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions. You know, just the usual boil-in-salty-water routine, nothing too crazy. It’s a good time to sneak a taste or two of the pasta as it cooks—you’ve got to verify it’s perfect, right?
Now, while that macaroni is bubbling away, let’s get to the heart of this dish: the creamy sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. When it’s nice and warm, toss in 1 minced garlic clove. Oh, the aroma is going to be divine. Just let it sizzle for a minute or two, stirring until it’s fragrant but not burnt—nobody wants burnt garlic in their life.
Next, whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour, along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Cook this mixture until it’s smooth and bubbly, like a well-earned bubble bath. Now, remove it from heat and pour in 2 cups of milk. Bring it back to the stove and heat it until boiling, stirring constantly. This part is key, folks. You want to make certain it thickens up nicely—about a minute should do the trick.
Once your macaroni is cooked and drained, it’s time to assemble this masterpiece. In a large mixing bowl, combine the macaroni with 14 ounces of drained diced tomatoes.
Then, in an ungreased 2-quart casserole dish, layer half of that macaroni mixture, sprinkling it with half a teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of dried basil (or fresh if you’re feeling fancy), and 2 to 3 cups of mozzarella cheese.
Repeat this layering process with the remaining ingredients. Finally, pour that creamy sauce over the top, cover it, and let it bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden.
Serve it up with some fresh basil, and voilà, you’ve got yourself a plateful of cheesy goodness. Just try not to plunge in too quickly; I’ve learned the hard way that molten cheese can be dangerously hot. Enjoy!
Margarita Knox Blox Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic recipe for Margarita Knox Blox, I’m always on the lookout for ways to mix things up.
For a twist, try using different pasta shapes like penne or fusilli instead of elbow macaroni. You can also switch up the cheese—sharp cheddar or pepper jack adds a nice kick!
If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add extra veggies.
Finally, experiment with spices; a pinch of crushed red pepper or oregano can elevate the dish to new heights!
What to Serve with Margarita Knox Blox
Pairing the right sides with Margarita Knox Blox can elevate your meal to a whole new level.
I love serving it with a crisp garden salad, as the freshness complements the cheesy richness.
Roasted vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, add a colorful touch and a smoky flavor that balances the dish perfectly.
For a heartier option, garlic bread or warm, buttery rolls are always a hit.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of spicy pickled jalapeños can add a fun kick.
Whatever you choose, these sides will enhance your Margarita Knox Blox experience and leave your guests wanting more!
Additional Tips & Notes
Serving Margarita Knox Blox with the right sides can enhance your meal, but there are also some handy tips to make the dish even better.
First, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick. If you’re a fan of extra creaminess, consider mixing in a bit of cream cheese during the sauce preparation.
Don’t forget to use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
Finally, letting your dish rest for a few minutes after baking allows it to set, making serving easier.
Enjoy experimenting with these tips, and you’ll elevate your Margarita Knox Blox experience!