Are you ready to discover the secret behind Chiles Restaurant's Famous Mac and Cheese? This iconic dish has won the hearts of many, and now you can recreate it at home with this detailed recipe. Enjoy the perfect blend of creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked macaroni, topped with a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. Let's dive into the steps, ingredients, and tips to make this culinary classic right in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1⁄2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation:
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Cook the Macaroni:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain the macaroni and set aside, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
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Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In the same pot or a separate saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it turns light golden.
- Gradually add the milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly incorporate the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Use the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
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Mix and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
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Serve:
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color.
- Serve warm, ensuring you have a crisp crust and a gooey center.
Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese:
- Cheese Blend: Using a combination of cheeses provides a depth of flavor that can’t be achieved with just one type. Consider experimenting with different cheese varieties for your own twist.
- Sauce Consistency: If your cheese sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with some reserved pasta water. It should coat the back of a spoon but still be pourable.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give an excellent crunch, but you can also use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed Ritz crackers for a richer topping.
- Cooking Pasta: Cook the macaroni just until al dente. Overcooking can lead to mushy mac and cheese.
💡 Note: To make it extra indulgent, add cooked bacon or lobster bits to the macaroni mixture before baking.
Now that you've learned how to make Chiles Restaurant's Famous Mac and Cheese, you can bring this comfort food classic into your home kitchen. This dish is more than just a meal; it's an experience, a blend of tradition and taste that brings people together. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy delight with a satisfyingly crunchy topping, and remember, the joy of cooking is in sharing it with others. Each bite not only offers a rich, savory flavor but also a connection to the memories and stories that make Chiles Restaurant so beloved. Craft this dish with care, and share it with love.
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
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Absolutely! You can mix and match cheeses to your taste or dietary needs. Gouda, Swiss, or even blue cheese can be interesting additions, just ensure they melt well.
How do I prevent the sauce from being grainy?
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The key is to not overheat the cheese sauce. Remove the pan from heat before adding the cheese, and stir it in gently until melted. If you see graininess, whisking a teaspoon of lemon juice or white wine into the sauce can help to smooth it out.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
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Yes, prepare the mac and cheese up until the baking step. Cover and refrigerate. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking to ensure it crisps up properly. You might need to bake it a bit longer if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Is there a way to make this mac and cheese healthier?
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You can opt for low-fat cheeses, whole grain or gluten-free pasta, and use a milk alternative like almond or cashew milk. Also, adding vegetables like peas or broccoli can bulk up the dish with nutrition.
