Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game with the Pioneer Woman's ultimate comfort food masterpiece! This isn't just any ordinary mac and cheese - this is a creamy, decadent, cheese-lover's dream that will make your taste buds dance and your family beg for seconds. Imagine a perfectly golden, bubbling dish of cheesy goodness that combines the rich flavors of cheddar and Parmesan in a luxurious sauce that clings to every single pasta curve. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply indulge in the most satisfying comfort meal ever, this Fancy Mac Cheese recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of elbow macaroni, 4 tablespoons of butter, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 4 cups of milk, 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate large saucepan, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the 4 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked macaroni and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and gently stir to combine, making sure all the pasta is evenly coated.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- If desired, you can add a topping for extra texture. Consider sprinkling additional shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Pioneer Woman Fancy Mac Cheese!
Tips
- Use room temperature milk and cheese for smoother sauce integration
- Grate your own cheese for better melting and more authentic flavor
- Be patient when making the roux - constant stirring prevents burning
- Don't overcook the pasta; aim for al dente to prevent mushy mac and cheese
- For extra crunch, consider adding breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking
- Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pan for the cheese sauce to ensure even heating
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for optimal texture
- Experiment with cheese combinations like adding gruyère or sharp white cheddar for depth
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 752kcal
Carbohydrates: 70g
Protein: 34g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
