This Baked Mac And Cheese Pioneer Woman recipe is your ticket to creamy, cheesy comfort food heaven. Imagine a dish so rich and flavorful, it becomes an instant family favorite – that’s exactly what you get with this recipe. Whether you’re craving a classic stovetop mac or the delightful golden crust of a baked version, this recipe delivers on all fronts, making it perfect for cozy dinners and potluck gatherings alike.
Pioneer Woman’s mac and cheese isn’t just any mac and cheese; it’s an experience. It’s renowned for its incredibly luscious and gooey cheese sauce, elevated with a touch of mustard powder that adds a subtle, tangy depth. The secret ingredient? An egg, which transforms the sauce into an unbelievably creamy dream. If you’ve never tried mac and cheese with egg before, prepare to be amazed! And for those who adore an extra layer of cheesy goodness, the optional baking step creates a beautifully browned and bubbly topping that’s simply irresistible.
While there are quick fixes like doctoring up boxed mac and cheese (and yes, we know a few tricks for How to Make Kraft Mac and Cheese Better), nothing compares to the homemade richness of this baked mac and cheese Pioneer Woman recipe. It’s genuinely scrumptious, deeply satisfying, and destined to become your new go-to recipe. From weeknight family meals to festive holiday feasts, this mac and cheese is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, earning enthusiastic approval from both kids and adults.
While you’re exploring comfort food favorites, don’t miss out on other fantastic Pioneer Woman recipes. Her chocolate pie and scalloped potatoes and ham are also exceptional dishes that bring warmth and flavor to any table.
Close up shot of Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese being scooped from a pot, highlighting its creamy texture.Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Baked Mac and Cheese
Let’s gather the simple yet essential ingredients that make this baked mac and cheese Pioneer Woman recipe so extraordinary:
- Elbow Macaroni: Classic macaroni is perfect for mac and cheese, but feel free to experiment with other small pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi. The key is pasta with lots of nooks and crannies to capture that luscious cheese sauce.
- Egg: The secret to an ultra-creamy sauce! Don’t skip the egg; it makes a world of difference in texture.
- Butter and All-Purpose Flour: This dynamic duo creates a roux, the foundation of our creamy cheese sauce. The roux thickens the milk and ensures a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Whole Milk: Whole milk adds richness and body to the cheese sauce. While reduced-fat milk can work, whole milk truly elevates the creaminess.
- Dry Mustard: A pinch of dry mustard provides a subtle tang that beautifully complements the richness of the cheese, adding depth and balance to the overall flavor profile of this Pioneer Woman baked mac and cheese.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is the quintessential mac and cheese cheese, melting beautifully into a smooth sauce and delivering that classic, sharp flavor. For an even more complex flavor, try a blend of cheeses like Gruyere, Colby, or Monterey Jack alongside the cheddar.
- Kosher Salt, Seasoned Salt, and Ground Black Pepper: These seasonings are crucial for enhancing the flavors of the cheese and dairy, ensuring the mac and cheese isn’t just creamy but also perfectly seasoned and deeply flavorful.
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Ingredient list for Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese, featuring labeled components like macaroni, cheese, milk, and spices.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pioneer Woman Baked Mac and Cheese
Follow these simple steps to create the most comforting baked mac and cheese Pioneer Woman style:
1. Cook the Macaroni: Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling, salted water until it reaches al dente. Follow the package directions closely to avoid overcooking. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and give it a quick rinse to stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare the Egg: In a small bowl, lightly beat one egg until the yolk and white are fully combined and smooth. Set aside for later use in the cheese sauce.
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Image showing an egg being beaten in a bowl with a fork, a key step in making creamy Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese.
3. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Once melted, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the butter. Whisk continuously to combine the butter and flour, creating a roux. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent any browning.
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Image depicting butter melting in a saucepan followed by the addition of flour to create a roux for Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese.
4. Add Milk and Mustard Powder: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth sauce. Add the dry mustard powder and continue whisking to incorporate it evenly. Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally, until the sauce thickens noticeably. This should take about 5 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low.
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Image showing milk and dry mustard being added to the roux in a saucepan, starting the cheese sauce for Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese.
5. Temper the Egg: Tempering the egg is crucial to prevent it from scrambling in the hot sauce. Take about 1/4 cup of the hot cheese sauce and slowly drizzle it into the beaten egg while whisking vigorously. This gradually raises the egg’s temperature. Once warmed, slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cheese sauce, whisking constantly to ensure it blends smoothly and doesn’t curdle.
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Image illustrating the tempering process of adding hot sauce to a beaten egg for Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese.
6. Stir in Cheese and Seasonings: 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. Season with kosher salt, seasoned salt, and ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed to perfect the flavor.
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Image showing cheddar cheese and spices being added to the cheese sauce in a saucepan for Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese.
7. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the cheese sauce in the saucepan. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is evenly coated in the rich cheese sauce.
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Image depicting cooked macaroni being added to the cheese sauce in a pot, combining to create Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese.
8. Optional Baking for Golden Crust: For a baked mac and cheese Pioneer Woman style, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased casserole dish. If desired, sprinkle an extra layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top for an even cheesier crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown. Refer to the recipe card below for detailed baking instructions.
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Image of fully cooked Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese in a pot, showcasing its rich, cheesy, and creamy appearance.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pioneer Woman Baked Mac and Cheese
- Smooth Sauce Secret: To guarantee a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce, add the milk gradually to the roux while whisking constantly. This technique ensures the base of your sauce is perfectly smooth before you even add the cheese.
- Freshly Grated Cheese is Key: Always use high-quality, freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain cellulose and other additives that can prevent them from melting as smoothly, potentially resulting in a grainy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese
What is the Best Cheese for Macaroni and Cheese?
While sharp cheddar is classic and highly recommended for its flavor and meltability in this baked mac and cheese Pioneer Woman recipe, you can absolutely use a blend of cheeses. Consider incorporating Gruyere for nutty notes, Colby for mildness, or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness. Experimenting with cheese combinations can create a unique flavor profile tailored to your taste.
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Close up shot of Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese being scooped from a pot, highlighting its creamy texture.
Should I Use Pre-Shredded Cheese for Mac and Cheese?
It’s highly recommended to grate your own cheese for the best results. Pre-shredded cheese is typically coated with anti-caking agents to prevent clumping in the bag. These agents can interfere with melting and sometimes result in a slightly gritty texture in your cheese sauce, especially in a recipe as creamy as this Pioneer Woman baked mac and cheese.
Why Include an Egg in Mac and Cheese?
The addition of an egg is what elevates this recipe to another level of creaminess. Eggs act as an emulsifier and binder, contributing to a richer, thicker, and more stable cheese sauce. It creates a luscious texture that’s incredibly satisfying and sets this Pioneer Woman mac and cheese apart.
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Serving of Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese plated next to a pot, showing its creamy and cheesy consistency.
Can I Customize This Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! This baked mac and cheese Pioneer Woman recipe is a fantastic base for customization. Get creative and add:
- Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli florets, peas, or roasted vegetables for added nutrients and flavor.
- Proteins: Incorporate cooked bacon pieces, shredded chicken, or ham for a heartier meal.
- Spice: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a little heat.
- Toppings: Breadcrumbs, crispy onions, or a sprinkle of paprika on top before baking can add texture and visual appeal.
Make-Ahead, Freezing, and Slow Cooker Options
Make Ahead Instructions:
You can prepare this Pioneer Woman baked mac and cheese ahead of time, though it’s best served fresh for peak creaminess. To make ahead:
- Prepare the mac and cheese as instructed, but do not bake it.
- Let it cool completely in a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top (optional).
- 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 to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake, covered, for 25-35 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Uncover for the last 10 minutes to brown the top if desired.
Freezing Instructions:
For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked Pioneer Woman baked mac and cheese:
- Prepare the mac and cheese as directed, stopping before the baking step.
- Let it cool completely.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s airtight.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as instructed. You may need to add a splash of milk when baking if it seems dry after thawing.
Slow Cooker Instructions:
For an ultra-creamy, hands-off approach, try the slow cooker method:
- Prepare the cheese sauce as instructed on the stovetop.
- Cook the macaroni to al dente and drain.
- Combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce in a slow cooker.
- Cook on LOW for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until heated through and extra creamy.
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Close-up showing the thick and creamy cheese sauce of Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese, emphasizing its rich texture.
What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese?
Baked mac and cheese Pioneer Woman is a comforting main dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
- Vegetables: A fresh green salad, slow cooker green beans, roasted asparagus, or steamed broccoli provide a healthy contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Protein: For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or pulled pork.
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Overhead shot of plated Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese, showcasing its gooey texture on a blue plate.
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Side view of a serving of gooey Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese on a blue plate, highlighting its cheesy goodness.
Stay Connected!
Did you try this baked mac and cheese Pioneer Woman recipe? We’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below or tag @KeyToMyLime on Instagram with your delicious creations. #KeyToMyLime
Pinterest pin image for Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese recipe, featuring a photo of the dish and recipe title.More Mac and Cheese Recipes to Explore
If you enjoyed this baked mac and cheese Pioneer Woman recipe, be sure to explore our other pasta recipes! You might also love these reader favorites:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Pioneer Woman Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe Card
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 cook roux for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in milk and mustard powder. Simmer, whisking occasionally, until thickened (about 5 minutes). Reduce heat to low.
- Temper egg: Slowly whisk 1/4 cup hot sauce into beaten egg. Then, slowly pour egg mixture back into sauce, whisking constantly.
- Stir in cheese, kosher salt, seasoned salt, and pepper until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce; stir to coat.
- Optional Baking: For baked mac and cheese, transfer to a greased casserole dish. Top with extra cheddar cheese, if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Recipe Notes:
*Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese may result in a gritty texture.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1/6
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 769, Total Fat: 38.3g, Carbohydrates: 72.2g, Fiber: 2.9g, Sugar: 7.8g, Protein: 32.7g
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary.
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