Pioneer Woman Baked Mac N Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

This Baked Mac N Cheese Pioneer Woman recipe is your ticket to creamy, cheesy perfection. Inspired by the queen of comfort food herself, this dish takes the classic mac and cheese and elevates it to a whole new level with a rich, decadent cheese sauce and an optional baked finish for that irresistible golden crust. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Pioneer Woman mac and cheese baked recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Pioneer Woman’s baked mac n cheese is more than just a side dish; it’s a heartwarming experience. Imagine a luscious, velvety cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked macaroni, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. The secret? A tangy hint of mustard powder and the richness of an egg-enhanced sauce, making it incredibly creamy. And for those who crave that extra layer of cheesy goodness, the baking step transforms the top into a bubbly, golden-brown crust that’s simply divine.

While quick boxed mac and cheese mixes have their place, nothing compares to the homemade goodness of this recipe. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up and far surpasses any store-bought version in taste and satisfaction. This baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman recipe is destined to become your new go-to for family dinners, potlucks, holiday feasts, and any occasion where comfort food is king. Even the pickiest eaters in your family will give this a resounding thumbs up!

If you’re a fan of Pioneer Woman’s recipes, you’re in for a treat. This mac and cheese is just the tip of the iceberg. Her culinary creations are known for their deliciousness and approachability. And if you’re looking for more cheesy inspiration, explore other variations and find your perfect mac and cheese match!

A serving spoon lifting a scoop of creamy baked mac n cheese from a large pot, showcasing its rich texture.

Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Baked Mac n Cheese

Let’s gather the ingredients to make this incredible baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect dish:

Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta shape for mac and cheese, elbow macaroni’s curves and ridges are ideal for capturing and holding onto that creamy cheese sauce. Feel free to experiment with other small pasta shapes with similar textures like shells or cavatappi. The key is pasta that can embrace the sauce!
Egg: This might seem unusual in mac and cheese, but the egg is the secret to an ultra-creamy sauce. It acts as an emulsifier, binding the sauce together and creating a luxurious texture that’s simply irresistible.
Butter and All-Purpose Flour: This dynamic duo forms the foundation of our cheese sauce – the roux. The roux is essential for thickening the milk and creating a smooth, velvety base for the cheese to melt into.
Whole Milk: The liquid component of the cheese sauce, whole milk contributes to the overall creaminess and richness of the dish. While whole milk is recommended for the best results, you can use reduced-fat milk if preferred, though it may slightly alter the final texture.
Dry Mustard: Don’t underestimate the power of dry mustard! This seemingly simple spice adds a subtle tang and complexity to the cheese sauce, cutting through the richness and balancing the flavors perfectly. It’s the secret ingredient that elevates this Pioneer Woman baked mac n cheese from ordinary to extraordinary.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese is the quintessential choice for mac and cheese, offering that classic, comforting flavor we all know and love. Sharp cheddar, in particular, provides a robust cheese flavor that stands up beautifully in this dish. For an even more complex flavor profile, consider using a blend of cheeses. Gruyere, Colby, and Monterey Jack are excellent choices to mix with cheddar, each adding its unique nuance to the overall taste.
Salt, Seasoned Salt, and Black Pepper: These seasonings are essential for enhancing the flavors of the cheese and dairy, creating a well-rounded and perfectly seasoned mac and cheese. Seasoned salt adds an extra layer of savory depth that complements the other flavors beautifully.

[The ingredients for Pioneer Woman mac and cheese are neatly labeled and arranged, ready for cooking.]

How to Make Pioneer Woman’s Baked Mac and Cheese: Step-by-Step

Let’s walk through the simple steps to create this delectable baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman recipe:

Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Remember to slightly undercook the pasta if you plan to bake the mac and cheese, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with warm water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Egg: In a small bowl, crack the egg and whisk it until the yolk and white are fully combined and smooth. Set aside for later.

[A close-up shot of an egg being beaten in a small bowl with a fork, highlighting the initial step in creating the creamy sauce.]

Make the Roux: Now, let’s create the foundation for our creamy cheese sauce – the roux. Place a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely. Once melted, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the butter. Whisk continuously to combine the butter and flour, forming a smooth paste. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Cooking the roux slightly removes the raw flour taste and helps thicken the sauce.

[Butter melting in a saucepan, followed by the addition of flour to create the roux, demonstrating the beginning of the cheese sauce.]

Add Milk and Mustard: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth sauce. Continue whisking until the roux and milk are fully incorporated. Sprinkle in the dry mustard powder and whisk again to distribute it evenly. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally. As it simmers, the sauce will begin to thicken. This process usually takes about 5 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low.

[Milk and dry mustard being added to the roux in a saucepan, simmering and thickening to form the base of the cheese sauce.]

Temper the Egg: Tempering the egg is crucial to prevent it from scrambling when added to the hot sauce. Take about 1/4 cup of the hot cheese sauce and slowly drizzle it into the beaten egg while whisking constantly and vigorously. This gradually raises the temperature of the egg, preventing it from curdling. Once the egg mixture is smooth and warmed, slowly pour it back into the saucepan with the rest of the cheese sauce, whisking continuously to incorporate it fully.

[Thickened cheese sauce being slowly added to the beaten egg, a critical step to temper the egg and ensure a smooth sauce.]

Add Cheese and Seasonings: Now for the best part – the cheese! Add the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the salt, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasonings. Taste the cheese sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt or seasoned salt to enhance the flavors to your liking.

[Shredded cheddar cheese and spices being added to the saucepan, melting into the sauce to create the cheesy goodness.]

Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat every piece of pasta with the luscious cheese sauce. Ensure the mac and cheese is evenly mixed and heated through.

[Cooked macaroni being added to the pot of cheese sauce and mixed, completing the stovetop mac and cheese.]

Optional Baking Step for Baked Mac n Cheese: For that classic baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman finish, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased casserole dish. For an extra cheesy top, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown and the mac and cheese is heated through.

[A dish of fully cooked Pioneer Woman baked mac and cheese, ready to be served and enjoyed.]

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Mac n Cheese

Smooth Sauce is Key: To guarantee a lump-free and silky smooth cheese sauce, make sure to add the milk gradually while whisking constantly. This technique prevents the roux from clumping and ensures a consistently smooth sauce base that readily incorporates the cheese.
Freshly Grated Cheese is Best: For the most flavorful and smoothest texture, always use high-quality, freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain cellulose and other anti-caking agents that can hinder melting and result in a grainy or less-than-smooth cheese sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and contributes superior flavor.

Choosing the Best Cheese for Your Baked Macaroni and Cheese

While sharp cheddar is a classic and excellent choice for baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman, don’t be afraid to experiment with cheese combinations to create your own signature flavor. Gruyere adds a nutty and slightly sweet note, Colby offers a mild and creamy taste, and Monterey Jack contributes a creamy texture and mild flavor. Combining different cheeses can add depth and complexity to your mac and cheese.

[A serving spoon lifting a scoop of creamy baked mac n cheese from a large pot, showcasing its rich texture.]

Pre-Shredded Cheese: To Use or Not to Use?

While convenient, pre-shredded cheese is generally not recommended for making the smoothest cheese sauce. As mentioned earlier, these cheeses are often coated with anti-caking agents to prevent clumping in the bag. These agents can interfere with the melting process, sometimes resulting in a slightly gritty texture in your cheese sauce. For the best results in your baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman, take the extra few minutes to grate your cheese fresh from the block.

Why Egg in Mac and Cheese? The Creaminess Secret

The addition of egg to this baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman recipe is what takes the creaminess to the next level. The egg acts as an emulsifier, creating a stable and rich emulsion in the cheese sauce. This results in a thicker, smoother, and more luxurious sauce that beautifully coats the macaroni and stays creamy even after baking.

[A plate of mac and cheese served next to a pot of macaroni, showcasing the finished dish in a serving setting.]

Customizing Your Pioneer Woman Baked Mac n Cheese

One of the joys of homemade mac and cheese is its versatility. Feel free to personalize your baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman by adding other ingredients. Stir in cooked vegetables like steamed broccoli florets, peas, or roasted vegetables for added nutrition and flavor. For a heartier meal, incorporate cooked proteins such as crispy bacon crumbles, shredded chicken, or ham. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, top your baked mac and cheese with buttered breadcrumbs before baking. And for those who like a little heat, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a subtle kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Make Ahead: You can prepare this baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman ahead of time, making it perfect for potlucks or busy weeknights. Prepare the recipe as instructed up to the baking step. Allow it to cool completely in a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheese on top, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-35 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.

Freezing: Yes, you can freeze unbaked mac and cheese. Assemble the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

[A close-up shot highlighting the thick and cheesy sauce of the Pioneer Woman baked mac and cheese, emphasizing its rich texture.]

Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese Variation

For an even easier, hands-off approach, you can adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Combine the cooked pasta and the prepared cheese sauce in your slow cooker. Set it to LOW and cook for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and creates an incredibly creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Mac n Cheese

Baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman is a fantastic main dish or side dish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside:

Vegetables: A fresh green salad, slow cooker green beans, roasted asparagus, or steamed broccoli provide a nice contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
Protein: Grilled chicken, pulled pork, or BBQ ribs are excellent protein pairings that complement the comfort food vibe.

[An overhead view of plated baked mac and cheese with a fork, showcasing its gooey and inviting appearance.]

[A side view of the gooey baked mac and cheese on a blue plate, emphasizing its cheesy and creamy texture.]

Enjoy creating this classic baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman recipe! It’s a guaranteed hit that will bring comfort and smiles to your table.

Keep in Touch! Let me know how your Pioneer Woman baked mac and cheese turns out in the comments below or share your photos on Instagram! @KeyToMyLime #KeyToMyLime

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A Pinterest pin image for Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese, featuring a tempting photo and recipe title.

More Mac and Cheese Recipes to Explore

If you loved this baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman recipe, be sure to explore our other delicious pasta recipes! You might also enjoy these reader favorites:

Jump to Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Pioneer Woman Baked Mac n Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

4 cups elbow macaroni
1 large egg
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups whole milk
2 heaping teaspoons dry mustard
1 pound freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese*
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (plus more to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Optional spices (cayenne pepper, paprika, and/or thyme)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni to al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse.
In a small bowl, beat the egg until smooth.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Sprinkle in flour and whisk to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
While whisking, slowly pour in milk and sprinkle in dry mustard. Simmer until sauce thickens (about 5 minutes), whisking occasionally. Reduce heat to low.
Temper the egg: Slowly whisk 1/4 cup of hot sauce into the beaten egg. Then, slowly pour egg mixture into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
Stir in cheese, salt, seasoned salt, and pepper until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Add cooked macaroni and stir to coat.
Optional Baked Mac and Cheese: Transfer to a greased casserole dish. Top with extra cheddar cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Recipe Notes

*Always use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese may result in a gritty texture.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1/6

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 769Total Fat: 38.3gCarbohydrates: 72.2gFiber: 2.9gSugar: 7.8gProtein: 32.7g

Nutritional information is an estimate.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

Tag @KeyToMyLime on Instagram so we can see your delicious Pioneer Woman Baked Mac and Cheese!

You’re now ready to create a truly memorable baked mac n cheese Pioneer Woman dish that will become a beloved family favorite! Whether you choose the stovetop creaminess or the baked golden crust, you’re in for a comforting and delicious meal.