Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese isn’t just another side dish; it’s a culinary experience renowned for its incredibly thick, creamy texture and intense cheesy flavor. Created by the Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, this mac and cheese recipe has become a beloved staple for families everywhere. From picky eaters to those with heartier appetites, this dish brings a wave of comfort and excitement to the dinner table.
This Pioneer Woman Mac And Cheese Recipe has become a go-to in countless kitchens because it’s both satisfying and straightforward. You can have this creamy, cheesy delight ready to serve in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Macaroni and cheese has evolved far beyond a simple kid’s meal. Today, there’s a mac and cheese recipe for every palate and occasion. Whether you prefer a classic baked version or a quick stovetop creation, the perfect cheesy, comforting recipe is within reach.
If you’re a mac and cheese enthusiast, be sure to explore other exciting variations like smoked gouda mac and cheese, the popular copycat Chick Fil A mac and cheese, the flavorful green chile mac and cheese, and the incredibly convenient crockpot mac and cheese!
But first, let’s dive into what makes the Pioneer Woman’s version so special.
Why This Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese Recipe is a Must-Try
Let’s face it, the internet is overflowing with mac and cheese recipes. However, this Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese stands out from the crowd. It’s truly exceptional because of its rich, thick cheese sauce and a beautifully browned, bubbly topping that gives way to the creamy, cheesy goodness beneath.
What’s truly wonderful is that this is a wholesome, classic dish that appeals to all ages. It’s more than just a meal; it’s comfort food at its finest.
Here’s what makes this recipe a winner:
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in less than an hour, ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Wholesome and Classic: Made with simple, recognizable ingredients.
- Unbelievably Creamy and Cheesy: The texture and flavor are simply irresistible.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a hearty main course or a satisfying side dish.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Fills you up and leaves you feeling content.
Pioneer Woman mac and cheese in a casserole dish
Achieving the Perfect Creamy Mac and Cheese Texture
One of the best things about this Pioneer Woman mac and cheese recipe is its versatility in serving. You have options! For an incredibly creamy and decadent mac and cheese, you can serve it immediately after combining the pasta and cheese sauce. This stovetop method results in a supremely rich and gooey dish.
Alternatively, for a more traditional baked mac and cheese, you can transfer it to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until it’s golden brown and bubbly in the oven. Both methods are incredibly delicious, and the choice depends on your preference and the occasion.
Sometimes, the best approach is to enjoy both! Try scooping a serving straight from the pot before baking and savoring the creamy stovetop version, then indulge in the baked mac and cheese later. (Consider it quality control to ensure it’s perfectly creamy and delicious!).
This recipe is substantial, comfortably serving 6-8 people. It’s not a small, boxed mac and cheese; this is a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that can easily stand as the centerpiece of your meal.
Bonus Tip: This fantastic cheese sauce isn’t limited to pasta! Try drizzling it over broccoli or cauliflower to encourage everyone to eat their vegetables.
Key Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese
- Whole Milk: The secret to the ultimate creamy texture in this Pioneer Woman mac and cheese is whole milk. With just over three percent fat, whole milk provides a richness and velvety consistency that you simply can’t achieve with lower-fat milk options.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The recipe calls for 16 ounces of grated sharp cheddar cheese, which delivers that classic mac and cheese flavor. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite shredded cheeses. Colby or mozzarella are popular alternatives that melt beautifully.
- Elbow Macaroni: It’s crucial to cook your elbow macaroni al dente. This means cooking it until it’s just slightly firm to the bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy once it’s combined with the cheese sauce and baked. Generously salting your pasta water is also key to building flavor right from the start.
Scooping Pioneer Woman mac and cheese
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Beat the Egg: In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg and set aside.
- Make the Roux: Melt butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. Sprinkle flour evenly over the melted butter. Whisk constantly and cook for about 2 minutes, until the mixture turns a light golden color. This is your roux, the base for your creamy sauce. Be careful not to burn it.
- Add Milk and Mustard: Remove the pot from the heat. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to ensure a smooth sauce. Add the dry mustard and whisk again to combine.
- Thicken the Sauce: Return the pot to medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Temper the Egg: Remove ¼ cup of the hot cheese sauce and slowly whisk it into the beaten egg in the small bowl. This process is called tempering and prevents the egg from scrambling when added to the hot sauce.
- Incorporate Egg Mixture: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot with the cheese sauce, whisking constantly to combine.
- Melt the Cheese: Add the grated cheddar cheese to the sauce, a handful at a time, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the Sauce: Season the cheese sauce with salt, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the drained cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir gently until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Bake (Optional): For baked mac and cheese, pour the mixture into a prepared baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese (optional) and bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and bubbly.
***For full ingredient measurements and detailed instructions, see the recipe card below.
Tips for Storing, Freezing, and Making Ahead
Proper storage is key to maintaining the deliciousness of your Pioneer Woman mac and cheese.
- Storing: Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For easy single servings, portion it out into individual containers. If space is limited, store it in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to prevent air exposure.
- Refrigerator Life: When stored correctly, this mac and cheese will stay fresh and tasty in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
- Freezing: Yes, Pioneer Woman mac and cheese freezes exceptionally well! You can freeze the entire baked dish or portion it into single servings for convenient lunches or quick meals, lasting for 1-2 months in the freezer.
- Freezing Tip: To prevent sticking, lightly butter your baking dish or freezer-safe containers before adding the mac and cheese. Freezer bags and vacuum sealers also work perfectly.
- Make-Ahead Instructions: Preparing this mac and cheese ahead of time is simple. You can assemble it in a baking dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- Food Safety: For comprehensive food safety guidelines, refer to reputable resources like StillTasty.com.
You can also save time by cooking the macaroni noodles in advance and storing them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make the cheese sauce.
Pioneer Woman mac and cheese on a plate
Recipe Variations to Try
One of the great things about this Pioneer Woman mac and cheese recipe is how easily you can customize it.
- Pasta Shapes: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes. Shells or spiral pasta noodles are excellent alternatives to elbow macaroni and hold the cheese sauce beautifully.
- Cheese Combinations: As mentioned earlier, you can use different types of cheese or create a blend. Consider adding Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of Parmesan for a more complex cheese flavor profile.
- Spice it Up: Adding herbs and spices is a fantastic way to customize the flavor. Paprika, thyme, and a pinch of cayenne pepper can add warmth and depth.
- Add-ins: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked and chopped hotdogs, crispy bacon bits, or even shredded cooked chicken or vegetables. These additions can transform it into a complete main course, especially popular with kids (and bacon lovers of all ages!).
Explore More Mac and Cheese Recipes
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Pioneer Woman Mac And Cheese Recipe
This Pioneer Woman mac and cheese recipe delivers a supremely creamy texture and an abundance of cheesy goodness that will delight everyone at your table, from the youngest to the young at heart!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Author: Kathleen
Ingredients
- 4 cups dried macaroni elbow pasta
- 1 large whole egg, beaten
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 heaping teaspoons dry mustard (adjust to taste)
- 16 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Optional Spices:
- Cayenne pepper
- Paprika
- Dried thyme
Optional Toppings:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- If baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions in well-salted water until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- In a small mixing bowl, beat the egg and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. Sprinkle flour evenly over the melted butter. Whisk constantly over medium-low heat and cook for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture becomes a light golden color, whisking continuously. Do not let it burn.
- Remove from heat, add milk and dry mustard. Whisk until smooth. Return to medium heat and bring mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring constantly, until sauce has thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Reduce heat to the lowest setting.
- Remove ¼ cup of the hot sauce and slowly whisk it into the beaten egg, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling. Whisk until smooth.
- Add the egg mixture to the sauce, whisking constantly to combine. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and seasoned salt, and any optional seasonings to taste.
- Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly combined.
- To serve creamy stovetop mac and cheese: Serve immediately.
- To bake mac and cheese: Pour into the prepared baking dish, top with an additional 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Fans Also Made:
Nutrition
Serving: 1/6 of the recipe | Calories: 965kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Protein: 45g | Fat: 50g | Saturated Fat: 31g | Cholesterol: 180mg | Sodium: 1219mg | Potassium: 472mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1690IU | Vitamin C: 1.7mg | Calcium: 960mg | Iron: 2.5mg
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Source: Ree Drummond
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