What Makes Chrissy Teigen’s Mac and Cheese Stand Out?
When we think of comfort food, macaroni and cheese is often the dish that comes to mind first. But Chrissy Teigen’s version takes this classic to a whole new level with unique ingredients and a preparation method that promises an explosion of flavors and textures. Her recipe, featured in her cookbook Cravings: Recipes for All the Food You Want to Eat, offers a delightful twist on the traditional mac and cheese.
Ingredients
To make Chrissy’s mac and cheese, you’ll need:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- Kosher salt
- 4 cups milk
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided
- 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
- 12 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 ounces Gruyere cheese, grated
- 1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 1⁄2 cups fresh white bread crumbs (5 slices, crusts removed)
- 4 ounces Gouda cheese, grated
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of water, adding 1 tablespoon of salt, and cooking the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente, roughly 6 to 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and keep it aside.
2. Making the Cheese Sauce
- Heat the milk in a saucepan until it’s hot but not boiling.
- In a separate pot, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Gradually pour in the hot milk, whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth and thickens.
- Remove from heat and mix in the grated cheddar, Gruyere, pepper, and nutmeg until the cheese melts completely.
3. Mixing the Pasta with Cheese Sauce
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni, stirring well to ensure every piece of pasta is covered.
4. Preparing the Topping
- Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a small pan. Add the breadcrumbs and toss until they are thoroughly coated.
- Mix the Gouda into the breadcrumbs, creating a delicious crust when baked.
5. Baking
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese topping evenly over the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Tips for the Perfect Mac and Cheese
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese often has additives that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Remember that the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so keep it al dente.
- Mix Cheeses: The combination of cheddar, Gruyere, and Gouda gives a depth of flavor that one cheese alone can’t achieve.
📝 Note: This recipe can be easily doubled for a larger crowd. If doubling, ensure you use a large enough baking dish to avoid overflow.
Variations to Consider
While Chrissy Teigen’s recipe is a hit, there are ways to adapt or enhance it:
- Add bacon bits for a smoky twist.
- Incorporate vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or tomatoes for added nutrition.
- Try a spicy version by adding some chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Substitute the breadcrumb topping with crushed Ritz crackers or panko for a different texture.
To sum up, Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese recipe is not just about the flavors but also the love and warmth it brings to any meal. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a comfort-food night, this dish is sure to please all palates. The key is in the quality of the ingredients, the method of preparation, and the personal touches you add to make it your own.
Can I make this mac and cheese recipe ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point where you would add the breadcrumb topping. Refrigerate it covered. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to ensure the top is crispy and golden.
What can I use if I don’t have Gruyere cheese?
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You can substitute Gruyere with similar melting cheeses like Emmental, Swiss, or even provolone for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
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Freezing can alter the texture of the sauce, making it grainy, but you can freeze it. Make sure it’s completely cool before freezing, and defrost in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently to avoid a sudden temperature change.
