Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that will elevate your comfort food game to a whole new level! Our Smoked Pimento Mac and Cheese combines the richness of smoked cheddar with the tangy twist of pimento cheese, creating a dish that's not just a meal but an experience. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is sure to impress both family and friends. With just 40 minutes of your time, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Are you ready to dive into cheesy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded smoked cheddar cheese
- 1 cup pimento cheese spread
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of elbow macaroni, 4 tablespoons of butter, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 3 cups of milk, 2 cups of shredded smoked cheddar cheese, 1 cup of pimento cheese spread, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate medium saucepan, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to the saucepan. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color, creating a roux.
- Gradually pour in the 3 cups of milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook the mixture, whisking frequently, until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the 2 cups of shredded smoked cheddar cheese and the 1 cup of pimento cheese spread. Mix until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy goodness.
- If desired, you can transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish for baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you choose to bake it.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle some extra shredded smoked cheddar cheese on top of the mac and cheese in the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with additional pimento cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Smoked Pimento Mac and Cheese with family and friends!
Tips
- Choose Quality Cheese: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality smoked cheddar and pimento cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged varieties, giving you a creamier sauce.
- Don’t Rush the Roux: When making the roux, take your time to whisk it until it reaches a light golden color. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor in your cheese sauce.
- Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! Be sure to taste your cheese sauce before mixing it with the pasta to ensure it has the perfect balance of salt and pepper.
- Bake for Extra Crispiness: If you love a crunchy topping, transfer your mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle extra shredded smoked cheddar on top. Baking it for 15-20 minutes will give you that irresistible golden crust.
- Add a Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for an extra kick!
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh herbs on top before serving not only enhances the flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Just assemble it up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 90mg
