sweetie pie mac and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
sweetie pie mac and cheese recipe
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The Best sweetie pie mac and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes: sweetie pie mac and cheese. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.

The origin of this recipe is unclear, but it’s a classic comfort food that never fails to bring joy to our family gatherings. The creamy cheese sauce, the perfect balance of pasta and cheese, and the crunchy breadcrumb topping all come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

One of the key techniques that makes this recipe stand out is the use of a roux to thicken the cheese sauce. By slowly adding the flour and butter mixture to the melted cheese, we’re able to create a rich and velvety texture that coats each piece of pasta perfectly.

This technique may take some practice to get just right, but trust me, it’s worth it. When I first started making this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to customize it to suit my family’s tastes.

Whether you prefer a classic cheddar or a spicy blend of cheeses, this recipe can be adapted to fit your needs. And let’s not forget about the add-ins – from crispy bacon to sautéed vegetables, there are countless ways to elevate this dish and make it your own.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how quickly this recipe comes together, even on weeknights when time is short. Simply cook your pasta according to package instructions, whip up the cheese sauce while the pasta cools, and combine everything in a baking dish for a hearty meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Sweetie Pie Mac and Cheese

Sweetie Pie Mac and Cheese

4.6 from 873 votes

This sweetie pie mac and cheese combines creamy cheddar with a touch of honey and a buttery cracker crust. It is a comforting twist on the classic, perfect for a cozy dinner or holiday side dish.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika

For the Topping

1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp honey

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
3Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes, then drain and set aside.
4In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
5Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until it forms a paste, stirring constantly.
6Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously.
7Cook over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, then remove from heat.
8Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted and smooth.
9Add the honey, salt, black pepper, and paprika, mixing well to combine.
10Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
11Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
12In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon of honey until the crumbs are moistened.
13Sprinkle the topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
14Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
15Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use aged cheddar. To make it gluten-free, substitute gluten-free pasta and crackers. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory cheese.

Watch Video Of How Sweetie Pie Mac and Cheese Works

One of my favorite things about this sweetie pie mac and cheese recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a satisfying main course, this recipe delivers.

One tip for reheating leftovers is to add some extra milk or cream if they seem too thick – this helps restore the creamy texture we love so much about mac and cheese. Another idea is to serve individual portions in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets – not only does this look adorable on Instagram (if you’re into that sorta thing), but it also makes serving easier when everyone wants seconds (which let’s be real – always happens).

Of course, no discussion of mac and cheese would be complete without mentioning storage ideas – simply wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days; when ready to reheat, pop them in the microwave until hot and bubbly.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweetie Pie Mac and Cheese

Q1: Can I make this recipe with gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can make this recipe with gluten-free pasta! In fact, using gluten-free pasta is a great way to accommodate dietary restrictions while still enjoying this comforting dish.

Q2: What type of cheese should I use?

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability – you can use any combination of cheeses you like! For a classic taste, try using cheddar or mozzarella; for something more adventurous, mix in some parmesan or gouda.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Sure thing! This recipe freezes beautifully – simply prepare the mac and cheese as instructed, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Q4: How do I reheat leftovers?

When reheating leftovers, make sure they’re heated through until they’re hot and bubbly – this ensures that the cheese is melted evenly and doesn’t separate.

Q5: Can I customize this recipe with other ingredients?

Absolutely!

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