Imagine a mac and cheese so irresistibly creamy and crispy that it transforms the classic comfort food into a gourmet experience. Our Grilled Skillet Mac and Cheese is not just another pasta dish – it's a culinary adventure that combines the rich, melty goodness of traditional mac and cheese with a perfectly crisp, golden-brown top that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a decadent meal, this recipe promises to elevate your mac and cheese game to a whole new level.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-9 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside.
- In a large cast-iron skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic powder and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low and add cooked macaroni to the skillet. Pour in milk and stir gently to combine.
- Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until cheese is completely melted and creates a smooth sauce coating the pasta.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- If using a grill, place the skillet on medium-low heat. If using stovetop, transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
- Cook for 10-12 minutes until breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy, and edges of mac and cheese start to bubble.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. The mac and cheese will continue to set during this time.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, garnishing with additional fresh herbs or black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but don't be afraid to mix in other cheeses like gruyère or monterey jack for added complexity.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the cheese sauce and grilled.
- Low and Slow is the Key: Use medium-low heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking and melting.
- Cast-Iron Skillet Matters: A cast-iron skillet provides the best heat distribution and creates a perfect crispy bottom.
- Breadcrumb Pro Tip: For extra crunch, mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the mac and cheese to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Customize Your Toppings: Consider adding crispy bacon bits, chopped herbs, or a sprinkle of extra cheese for more flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg
