Are you ready to elevate your mac ‘n cheese game to a whole new level? This unique and original “Gourmet Mac ‘N Cheese” recipe is designed to surpass even the fondest memories of your mom’s classic dish. With a blend of premium cheeses, a hint of blue cheese crumbles, and a crunchy herb-seasoned crouton topping, this recipe promises a delightful twist on the beloved comfort food. Follow the steps below to create a mac ‘n cheese experience that will leave your taste buds singing.
- yield : 6 (Makes 2 qt. casserole)
- prep time : 50 Min
- cook time : 55 Min
Ingredients:
- 4 quarts water, boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
- 4 ounces cream cheese (1/2 brick), at room temperature
- 1/8 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup Asiago cheese, shredded
- 1/3 cup Munster cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2/3 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup half & half creamer (or a combination of heavy cream & whole milk)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/16 teaspoon ground black pepper
Topping:
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 cup herb-seasoned croutons, crushed
- 1/8 cup grated Parmesan, Romano & Asiago cheese blend (shaker container type)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 2 or 2 1/2 quart casserole dish and set it aside.
- Prep the Ingredients: Shred the cheeses, crush the croutons, and gather all other ingredients except the macaroni.
- Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 8 minutes.
- Drain and Combine: Drain the macaroni, then return it to the pot. Immediately add butter and cream cheese, stirring until melted.
- Cheese Fusion: Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Combine all shredded cheeses in a bowl, then stir them into the macaroni mixture.
- Whisk the Cream Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together half & half, egg, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the macaroni and cheese, stirring well.
- Topping Time: Combine crushed croutons with melted butter, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan, Romano & Asiago cheese blend. Stir to coat.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle the crouton topping evenly over the top. Bake at 350ºF for 50 to 60 minutes, covering with foil if necessary to prevent excessive browning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once golden and bubbly, your Gourmet Mac ‘N Cheese is ready to be served. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful crunch of this elevated classic. Any leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated with a splash of milk or half & half.
Conclusion: Indulge in the extraordinary with this Better Than Mom’s Mac ‘N Cheese recipe. The combination of diverse cheeses, a creamy base, and a flavorful topping will redefine your expectations of this beloved comfort dish. Treat yourself to a gourmet experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. It’s not just mac ‘n cheese; it’s a culinary journey of taste and texture that you’ll want to savor again and again.
image source : just a pinch
