Get ready to transform your ordinary mac and cheese into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds! This Baked Pimiento Cheese Mac is not just another pasta dish – it's a creamy, crispy, flavor-packed experience that combines the classic comfort of mac and cheese with the bold, tangy kick of pimiento cheese. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you're craving a seriously indulgent comfort food that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup pimiento cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.
- Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander, shaking off excess water. Return the pasta to the pot.
- Add milk and pimiento cheese to the cooked macaroni. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Season the mac and cheese with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to distribute the seasonings.
- Transfer the macaroni mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese, creating a crispy golden topping.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the mac and cheese to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional chopped herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Tips
- Cook your pasta just shy of al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents mushy mac and cheese.
- Use room temperature milk and cheese for smoother mixing and more even coating of the pasta.
- For extra crunch, try mixing some grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs before topping.
- Don't skip letting the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking – this helps the mac and cheese set and makes serving easier.
- For a flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the cheese mixture.
- If you want a more golden and crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking (watch carefully to prevent burning).
- Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven to maintain its crispy topping.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 265kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 21mg
