Pioneer Womans Ultimate Mac Cheese
Pioneer Womans Ultimate Mac Cheese
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Recipe Introduction: Say Cheese!
Ever find yourself craving something utterly comforting? Something that reminds you of childhood, family dinners, and pure, unadulterated cheesy joy? Well, you're in the right place.
Today, we're diving headfirst into the glorious world of pioneer woman mac and cheese !
This isn't just any mac and cheese recipe . This is the mac and cheese recipe . Ree Drummond's version is legendary.
Seriously, this creamy mac and cheese is a hug in a bowl.
Quick Hook: Why THIS Mac and Cheese?
Craving the ultimate comfort food? The pioneer woman mac and cheese recipe is the answer! It’s packed with creamy cheddar and a hint of tangy mustard. You'll love it.
Brief Overview: Where the Magic Happens
This baked mac and cheese recipe hails from the heartland, bringing simple pleasures to the table. It's an easy recipe.
Expect about 45 minutes from start to finish. This makes eight generous servings, perfect for a family feast or a potluck.
Main Benefits: The Comfort Factor
This homemade mac and cheese is pure comfort. It's rich and decadent, perfect for a cold evening or any time you need a little TLC.
It's the ultimate comfort food recipe to bring to the table. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra dairy for the kiddos.
Why You'll Love This Mac and Cheese
Honestly, what's not to love? This is more than just pasta and cheese. It’s an experience. This easy mac and cheese recipe is a simple dish that creates lasting memories.
It's about creating those family dinner ideas where everyone gathers around the table, smiles, and just enjoys being together.
Getting Started: The Star Ingredients
Let's talk cheddar cheese mac and cheese . The recipe calls for a whole pound of elbow macaroni. Then add butter, flour, milk and seasonings.
Oh, and of course, plenty of cheddar cheese and the optional Gruyère. Did I mention the Gruyere?
Alright, let’s gather our troops and head into the kitchen. It's time to make some magic with this cheese sauce recipe .
Are you ready to create the best pioneer woman mac and cheese you've ever tasted?
Let's Get Cheesy: Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Mac You've Ever Had!
Alright, partner! We're diving headfirst into the ingredients you'll need to make the absolute best Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese .
Honestly, this is proper comfort food recipes at its finest. It is family dinner ideas sorted. Get ready for a creamy, cheesy explosion that'll make you wanna slap yo' mama.
.. in a good way, of course!
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
Okay, pay attention, 'cause this is important! These are the precise measurements you'll need.
- Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (454g) . Look for a good quality brand. Trust me, the texture makes a difference!
- Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons (85g) . Use good butter. I always say the quality of your ingredients matters.
- All-Purpose Flour: ½ cup (60g) . This is crucial for making the roux, which is key to our cheese sauce recipe .
- Whole Milk: 3 cups (710ml) . Don't skimp! It needs to be whole milk, otherwise, the sauce won't be as creamy and rich.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups (400g) , shredded. The sharper the better, in my opinion! The sharper the cheese is, the stronger the flavor will be.
- Gruyère Cheese: 1 cup (100g) , shredded (optional, but oh-so-good!). If you can find it, Gruyere adds something special to this creamy mac and cheese .
- Panko Breadcrumbs: ½ cup (50g) . These give the topping a lovely crunch.
- Melted Butter (for topping): 2 tablespoons (28g) .
Seasoning Notes: Adding the Magic
Let's talk seasoning. This is where you can really make this homemade mac and cheese your own.
- Essential Spice Combo: Salt ( 1 teaspoon ), Pepper ( ½ teaspoon ), and Dry Mustard ( ½ teaspoon ). The mustard might sound weird, but it gives it this AMAZING little tang.
- Flavor Enhancers: Freshly ground black pepper is always better than the pre-ground stuff.
- Quick Subs: Don't have dry mustard? A tiny dash of Dijon will do in a pinch.
Equipment Needed: Keepin' It Simple
Don't need fancy kit.
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta. Duh!
- 9x13 Inch Baking Dish: Any similar sized dish works.
- Whisk: To make a smooth sauce.
- Large Saucepan: For the cheese sauce recipe .
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Pretty self-explanatory.
- Cheese Grater: Grate your own cheddar cheese mac and cheese off the block for best results!
And there you have it! With these ingredients and tools, you're well on your way to making the easy mac and cheese recipe of your dreams. Now, let's get cookin'!
Let's Get Cheesy: Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese Time!
Honestly, who doesn't love mac and cheese? It's pure comfort in a bowl. Today, we're diving headfirst into the legendary pioneer woman mac and cheese recipe! Think bubbling, cheesy, and totally irresistible.
This is the creamy mac and cheese recipe you need in your life. I still remember the first time I made this.
Oh my gosh! This dish is the ultimate comfort food recipes . Perfect for a family dinner ideas , movie nights, or just when you need a big, cheesy hug.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row!
First things first. It’s all about that mise en place , my friends! This just means getting everything prepped and ready to go.
Get the butter ready. Grate the cheese now. It’s time to measure out your ingredients. It'll make the whole process smoother.
Safety reminder: be careful when grating your cheese! No one wants a finger added to the dish.
Unleash the Creaminess: Step-by-Step
- Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Grease your baking dish.
- Cook 1 pound (454g) of elbow macaroni until al dente . That means firm to the bite. Drain it well!
- Melt 6 tablespoons (85g) butter in a saucepan. Whisk in ½ cup (60g) flour. Cook for 1- 2 minutes . That's the roux folks!
- Slowly whisk in 3 cups (710ml) milk until smooth. Simmer for 5- 7 minutes , until thickened. Add salt, pepper, and mustard.
- Remove from heat and stir in 4 cups (400g) cheddar and 1 cup (100g) Gruyère. The sauce is good for a homemade mac and cheese . Melt and mix until creamy. This is your cheese sauce recipe .
- Add the macaroni to the sauce and mix until coated.
- Pour into your greased baking dish.
- Combine ½ cup (50g) Panko with 2 tablespoons (28g) melted butter, and sprinkle this on top of the macaroni.
- Bake for 20- 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving this baked mac and cheese . It's now a perfect creamy mac and cheese
Pro Tips: Secrets from My Kitchen
Want to elevate your easy mac and cheese recipe ? Here's the 411: Use good quality cheese! Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process.
Avoid overcooking the pasta. Mushy mac is sad mac. You can make the cheese sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
Reheat it gently before combining it with the pasta. If you want a cheddar cheese mac and cheese , use a good quality cheddar.
So there you have it, the most amazing recipe for Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese. You can thank me later. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes for Your Best Mac and Cheese
Alright, you've got the pioneer woman mac and cheese recipe down. But before you whip up this bowl of sunshine, let's chat about some key things.
We are making a creamy mac and cheese , so lets go over the fine details that matter.
Serving it Up Right
Presentation is everything, darlin'! I love serving this homemade mac and cheese straight from the baking dish, all bubbly and golden.
Honestly, a big spoon is all you need. For something a bit fancier, try individual ramekins. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives.
As for sides, a crisp green salad cuts through the richness perfectly. Thinking about beverages, a dry white wine or even an ice-cold glass of lemonade does the trick.
Storage Secrets
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This baked mac and cheese keeps well.
Refrigerate it : Pop it in an airtight container and it will be good for 3-4 days .
Freezing : You can freeze it, but be warned, the texture might change a bit. Still delicious, just not as creamy. Thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating : For the fridge: Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until warmed through. For freezer: you will need to reheat it for 40- 50 minutes.
Mix It Up
Want to get a little adventurous with your mac and cheese recipe ?
Dietary needs : To make it gluten-free, just swap in gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Easy peasy!
Seasonal Switch-up : In the fall, I sometimes add roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree to the cheese sauce recipe .
Adds a lovely sweetness and extra creaminess. Honestly, cheddar cheese mac and cheese is divine on its own, but don't be afraid to experiment!
Nutrition Nuggets
Okay, so pioneer woman mac and cheese might not be a health food. Let's be real. But it feeds the soul.
It has protein from the cheese and dairy. It's also got carbs for energy. Portion control is key, my friends.
This is a comfort food recipe , so remember to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
So there you have it! A easy mac and cheese recipe that is awesome for family dinner ideas . Get in the kitchen and get cooking.
Remember, cooking should be fun. Don't be scared to mess up; it's all part of the learning process. Soon, you'll be making the best mac and cheese ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the secret to making Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese extra creamy?
The secret to a super creamy Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese lies in using good quality cheese and making a smooth roux. Freshly grated cheese melts much better than pre-shredded, giving you that velvety texture.
Also, be sure to cook the roux (butter and flour) for a minute or two before adding the milk to eliminate any floury taste and ensure a silky-smooth sauce. Think of it like making gravy, but cheesier!
Can I make Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the mac and cheese in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.
You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold. Just like batch cooking your Sunday roast!
What kind of cheese is best for Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese?
While the recipe calls for sharp cheddar, feel free to experiment! Gruyère adds a nutty, sophisticated flavor, but Monterey Jack or Colby are also great options. The Pioneer Woman's mac and cheese is very versatile. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as the cellulose coating can prevent it from melting properly.
Freshly grated cheese gives you the best, meltiest results. It's like using real butter versus margarine - you get a better flavor and texture!
My Pioneer Woman mac and cheese topping isn't getting crispy. What am I doing wrong?
A soggy topping is a real bummer, innit? Make sure you're using Panko breadcrumbs, as they crisp up better than regular breadcrumbs. Also, be generous with the melted butter you mix with the breadcrumbs – it helps them brown.
For an extra crispy boost, broil the mac and cheese for the last minute or two of baking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning. Keep an eye on the oven, mate!
How should I store leftover Pioneer Woman mac and cheese?
Store leftover Pioneer Woman mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to help restore the creamy consistency. For larger portions, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Remember, like a good cup of tea, leftovers are best enjoyed sooner rather than later!
Can I add any extra ingredients to Pioneer Woman mac and cheese to make it even better?
You bet! This recipe is a blank canvas. Cooked bacon bits add a smoky, savory element. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts provide a healthy boost. A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper adds a little kick! Experiment and make it your own signature mac.
After all, cooking is all about finding what tastes best to you, just like finding your favorite spot in the local pub.
