Get ready to experience mac and cheese like never before! This legendary Boston Chicken recipe will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure. Imagine a creamy, golden-topped macaroni dish that's so irresistible, it'll have your family fighting for seconds and begging for the recipe. With a perfect blend of sharp cheddar, crispy breadcrumbs, and a homemade cheese sauce that'll make your taste buds dance, this Gloria Pitzer classic is about to become your new comfort food obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of butter, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the mac and cheese.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse, as you want the starch to help the cheese sauce adhere.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the milk and stir until combined. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce in the pot. Stir well to ensure that all the pasta is coated with the creamy cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure even cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with the breadcrumbs. Mix well to create a topping.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the cheese sauce set slightly.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy your Boston Chicken Macaroni and Cheese Gloria Pitzer!
Tips
- Choose the right cheese: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Cook macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Create a smooth cheese sauce: Melt cheese slowly and stir continuously to prevent clumping and achieve a silky-smooth consistency.
- Breadcrumb topping trick: For extra crunch, consider mixing the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
- Let it rest: Allow the mac and cheese to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set and makes serving easier.
- Customize your dish: Feel free to add crispy bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or herbs like thyme for a personal touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 596kcal
Carbohydrates: 51g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 93mg
