Dive into the heart of comfort food with this Baked Macaroni And Cheese Recipe Pioneer Woman style! Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman herself, is renowned for her heartwarming, family-friendly recipes, and this mac and cheese is no exception. Get ready to create a dish that’s incredibly creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings.
This isn’t just your average mac and cheese; it’s elevated with a luscious cheese sauce, a hint of tangy mustard powder, and the secret ingredient for ultimate creaminess – an egg! Whether you choose to enjoy it straight from the stovetop or bake it to golden, bubbly perfection, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Say goodbye to bland boxed mac and cheese and hello to a homemade masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
If you’re a fan of classic comfort dishes, you’ll also love exploring other Pioneer Woman recipes. Her repertoire is filled with delicious and approachable meals that bring joy to any table.
Serving spoon scooping Pioneer Woman mac and cheese from a pot, showcasing its creamy texture.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman’s Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Let’s gather the simple yet essential ingredients that make this baked macaroni and cheese Pioneer Woman recipe so extraordinary. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect creamy and cheesy texture we’re aiming for.
- Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese, elbow macaroni’s shape is ideal for capturing and holding onto that decadent cheese sauce. Feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi for a fun twist.
- Egg: This might seem unusual, but the egg is the secret to an ultra-creamy sauce. It emulsifies with the milk and cheese, creating a richness that’s simply irresistible.
- Butter and All-Purpose Flour: These are the foundation of our roux, the thickening agent for the cheese sauce. Starting with a roux ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce every time.
- Whole Milk: The liquid base of our cheese sauce. Whole milk contributes to a richer, creamier texture, but you can use reduced-fat milk if preferred.
- Dry Mustard Powder: A touch of dry mustard adds a subtle tang that beautifully complements the richness of the cheese. It’s a key ingredient in balancing the flavors.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! Sharp cheddar provides that classic mac and cheese flavor. For the best meltability and taste, use freshly grated cheese. You can also blend cheddar with other cheeses like Gruyere, Colby, or Monterey Jack for a more complex flavor profile.
- Kosher Salt, Seasoned Salt, and Ground Black Pepper: Simple seasonings, but essential for enhancing all the flavors and bringing everything together. Seasoned salt adds an extra layer of savory goodness.
Labeled ingredients for Pioneer Woman mac and cheese, highlighting each component for clarity.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pioneer Woman Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Ready to create this comforting classic? Follow these simple steps to make the best baked macaroni and cheese recipe Pioneer Woman style, ensuring a perfect dish every time.
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Cook the Macaroni: Begin by cooking your elbow macaroni. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until it’s just al dente, according to package directions. Remember to drain and rinse the pasta after cooking to stop the cooking process.
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Prepare the Egg: In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg with a fork until it’s smooth and well combined. Set aside for later use in the cheese sauce.
Beaten egg in a bowl, showcasing the initial step in creating the creamy sauce. -
Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Once melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Cook the butter and flour mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is essential for a smooth cheese sauce.
Butter melting in a saucepan, followed by the addition of flour to create the roux. -
Create the Cheese Sauce Base: Gradually pour in the whole milk while continuously whisking the roux to prevent any lumps from forming. Add the dry mustard powder and continue whisking. Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Reduce the heat to low once thickened.
Milk and mustard powder being added to the roux, creating the base of the cheese sauce. -
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 base and slowly drizzle it into the beaten egg while whisking constantly. This gradually raises the egg’s temperature. Once tempered, slowly pour the warm egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining sauce, whisking continuously to incorporate it smoothly.
Tempering the egg by slowly adding hot sauce to it while whisking. -
Melt in the Cheese and Season: Add the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce, along with kosher salt, seasoned salt, and ground black pepper. Stir continuously until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Cheddar cheese and seasonings being added to the cheese sauce and stirred until melted. -
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated in the rich cheese sauce.
Cooked macaroni being added to the cheese sauce and mixed together in the saucepan. -
Bake for Golden Perfection (Optional): For baked macaroni and cheese recipe Pioneer Woman style, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased casserole dish. For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Finished Pioneer Woman mac and cheese in a pot, ready to be served and enjoyed.
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese
To take your baked macaroni and cheese recipe Pioneer Woman to the next level, consider these helpful tips:
- Whisk Continuously: When adding milk to the roux, whisk constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth cheese sauce base.
- Freshly Grated Cheese is Key: Always use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain cellulose, which can prevent them from melting as smoothly, resulting in a grainy texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the macaroni just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the cheese sauce and during baking, so slightly undercooking it initially prevents mushy mac and cheese.
- Customize Your Cheese Blend: While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Gruyere adds nuttiness, Colby offers mildness, and Monterey Jack contributes extra meltiness.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top before baking. Toss them with melted butter and a pinch of paprika for extra flavor and color.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese
Let’s address some common questions you might have when making this delicious baked macaroni and cheese recipe Pioneer Woman.
What Cheese is Best for Macaroni and Cheese?
Sharp cheddar is a traditional and excellent choice for mac and cheese, providing a robust flavor and great melting properties. However, feel free to use a blend of cheeses. Gruyere, Colby, and Monterey Jack are all fantastic options to mix with cheddar for a more complex flavor profile.
Serving spoon scooping Pioneer Woman mac and cheese from a pot, showcasing its creamy texture.
Can I Use Pre-Shredded Cheese?
While convenient, it’s highly recommended to use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses are coated with anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting and sometimes result in a gritty texture in your cheese sauce.
Why Do You Put Eggs in Mac and Cheese?
The egg is a secret ingredient that elevates the creaminess of the cheese sauce. It acts as an emulsifier, binding the milk and cheese together to create a richer, smoother, and more luxurious texture.
Plated mac and cheese, emphasizing the creamy texture achieved by adding egg to the recipe.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! This baked macaroni and cheese recipe Pioneer Woman is a fantastic base for customization. Get creative and add:
- Vegetables: Broccoli florets, peas, or roasted vegetables like cauliflower or butternut squash.
- Proteins: Cooked bacon crumbles, shredded chicken, or ham for a heartier meal.
- Spice: A dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or a sprinkle of paprika for a little heat.
- Toppings: Breadcrumbs, crispy fried onions, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish.
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
Make Ahead: You can prepare this mac and cheese ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble it without baking if you plan to bake it later. Prepare the recipe as instructed up to the point of baking. Let it cool completely, transfer it to a greased baking dish, top with extra cheese (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, then bake as directed.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked mac and cheese. Assemble the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe dish, let it cool completely, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Close-up shot of the thick and creamy cheese sauce in Pioneer Woman mac and cheese.
Slow Cooker Option
For an even easier approach, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Combine the cooked pasta and prepared cheese sauce in your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. The slow cooker method results in an incredibly creamy and melty mac and cheese as the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Baked macaroni and cheese recipe Pioneer Woman is a comforting main dish on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful side.
- Slow Cooker Green Beans: Green beans cooked in a slow cooker are a classic and easy pairing.
- Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence, serve with warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover cheese sauce.
Overhead shot of plated mac and cheese, inviting and ready to be served.
Side shot of gooey mac and cheese on a plate, emphasizing its cheesy goodness.
Enjoy creating this ultimate baked macaroni and cheese recipe Pioneer Woman! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy to every meal.
