Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that many people love, and finding the perfect recipe can be a game-changer. For those seeking a rich and creamy homemade mac and cheese, the Pioneer Woman’s recipe has garnered significant attention. Having a go-to mac and cheese recipe already, I was intrigued to try the Pioneer Woman version to see how it stacked up. My usual recipe relies on a quick base of cream of mushroom soup and sharp cheddar, which is convenient but sometimes lacks the depth of flavor I crave. I’m also not a fan of mac and cheese made with processed cheese – homemade is definitely the way to go for a truly satisfying dish.
The Pioneer Woman’s mac and cheese recipe seemed straightforward and promised a creamy texture, especially with the inclusion of an egg in the sauce – a technique I hadn’t encountered before in mac and cheese recipes. The preparation process was indeed quick and easy. I decided to finish the dish in the oven, as suggested in many mac and cheese recipes, but I made sure to taste it beforehand. Interestingly, I found that I actually preferred the taste before baking it in the oven. This makes the recipe even faster if you choose to skip the baking step, which is a great option for a weeknight meal. The result was a wonderfully creamy and flavorful mac and cheese. If I were to tweak the original recipe slightly, I would reduce the amount of dry mustard, as it was a bit strong for my taste. Overall, this Pioneer Woman mac and cheese recipe is a winner and one that I will definitely be making again.
Pioneer Woman’s Mac and Cheese Recipe
This recipe, adapted from the Pioneer Woman, offers a delightful twist on classic mac and cheese. It’s known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, achieved through a combination of simple yet quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Dried Macaroni
- ¼ cup (1/2 Stick) Butter
- ¼ cup All-purpose Flour
- 2 ½ cups Whole Milk (or a mix of milk and cream for extra richness)
- 2 teaspoons Dry Mustard (adjust to taste, less for a milder flavor)
- 1 Egg, Beaten
- 1 pound Cheese, Grated (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite blend)
- ½ teaspoon Salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon Seasoned Salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook macaroni until very firm – it should be firmer than you would normally eat pasta. Drain well.
- Prepare the Egg: In a small bowl, beat the egg and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a large pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for about 5 minutes to create a roux. Ensure it doesn’t burn.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually pour in milk, add dry mustard, and whisk until smooth. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low.
- Temper the Egg: Take ¼ cup of the hot sauce and slowly drizzle it into the beaten egg, whisking constantly to prevent the egg from cooking too quickly. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the pot with the sauce, whisking continuously until smooth.
- Melt the Cheese: Add the grated cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Season: Stir in salt, seasoned salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Don’t undersalt!
- Combine with Macaroni: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine thoroughly.
- Serve or Bake: Serve immediately for a very creamy mac and cheese. Alternatively, pour into a buttered 9×13 inch baking dish, top with extra cheese if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Pioneer Woman Mac N Cheese
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Firm macaroni is key because it will continue to soften in the cheese sauce, especially if you bake it.
- Adjust the Mustard: If you are sensitive to mustard flavor, start with 1 teaspoon of dry mustard and add more to taste.
- Cheese Choice Matters: Using a blend of cheeses can enhance the flavor. Sharp cheddar provides a classic mac and cheese taste, while Monterey Jack adds creaminess. Experiment with your favorite cheese combinations.
- Bake or Not to Bake: For maximum creaminess, serve it straight from the pot. Baking will give it a more traditional casserole texture and a golden crust, but it will be slightly less creamy.
- Seasoning is Crucial: Taste and season the cheese sauce generously. Salt and seasoned salt are essential to bring out the flavors of the cheese and other ingredients.
In conclusion, the Pioneer Woman’s mac and cheese recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a homemade, creamy, and flavorful mac and cheese. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner and impressive enough for a potluck or gathering. Whether you serve it straight from the stovetop or bake it for a golden finish, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give this Pioneer Woman mac n cheese recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and delicious meal!
