Tired of the same old macaroni and cheese? Ready to take your comfort food to the next level? Then get ready to be amazed! This grilled macaroni and cheese recipe transforms a classic dish into a gooey, crispy, and utterly irresistible masterpiece. It's the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightfully crunchy exterior – a truly unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is surprisingly easy, making it a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next get-together.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (or a mix of other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Fontina)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, for bread crumbs
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes. This is your béchamel sauce, the foundation of amazing mac and cheese!
- Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until melted and smooth.
Assemble and Bake:
- Stir in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
Grill to Perfection:
- Broil the macaroni and cheese for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning!
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Best Grilled Mac and Cheese:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta will finish cooking in the oven and prevent a mushy texture.
- Use high-quality cheese: The flavor of your cheese will significantly impact the final taste.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent smooth melting.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: This ensures even cooking and browning.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Crumble cooked bacon over the top before adding the bread crumbs.
- Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Stir in cooked broccoli, cauliflower, or peas with the macaroni.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This grilled macaroni and cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a perfectly crunchy topping is simply irresistible. It's a delicious and easy recipe that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!