dolly parton’s mac and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best dolly parton’s mac and cheese recipe

I’ve been making Dolly Parton’s mac and cheese recipe for years, and it’s still a crowd-pleaser in my household. The dish has a rich history, originating from the classic Southern comfort food.

The creamy pasta is infused with a blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and Colby cheeses, giving it a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. My kids love helping me prepare the macaroni, and they always get excited when they see the finished product.

It’s a staple in our home, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. I’ve tried various variations of this recipe over the years, but Dolly Parton’s original remains my go-to.

Whether I’m serving it as a main course or as a side dish, it always gets rave reviews from my family and friends. One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make.

With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, anyone can whip up a delicious batch of mac and cheese. I’ve also noticed that this recipe is surprisingly healthy for a comfort food dish – the cheese is balanced by whole wheat pasta and a medley of vegetables.

This recipe is more than just a tasty meal; it’s also a way to connect with my loved ones and create lasting memories. Every time we gather around the table to enjoy this dish, I’m reminded of the importance of sharing meals with those we care about.

Dolly Parton’s Mac and Cheese

4.7 from 1624 votes

This creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is inspired by Dolly Parton’s own recipe. It features a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for a rich, comforting flavor.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Cheese

1 pound elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain in a colander and set aside.
4In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter.
5Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden.
6Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
7Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
8Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and both shredded cheeses.
9Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
10Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is well coated.
11Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
12In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
13Sprinkle this topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
14Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
15Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 17g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. You can substitute the Monterey Jack with Gouda or Colby for a different taste.

Watch Video Of How Dolly Parton’s Mac and Cheese Works

Dolly Parton’s mac and cheese is a recipe that always works for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a holiday feast. I love that it is simple to make but feels so special when you serve it.

My family always looks forward to it, and I know yours will too. For storage, just put leftovers in a container in the fridge for up to four days.

To reheat, use the microwave or oven and add a little milk to keep it creamy. You can also freeze it for up to three months.

Serve it as a side with grilled chicken, meatloaf, or a big green salad. It is perfect for family gatherings because everyone loves it, and it pairs well with almost anything.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Dolly Parton’s Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for Dolly Parton’s mac and cheese?

A: You can use any type of pasta you like for this recipe – elbow macaroni is classic, but other shapes like shells or cavatappi work well too.

Q: Can I make Dolly Parton’s mac and cheese without using processed cheese?

A: While processed cheese can be convenient, you can easily substitute it with real cheddar or other sharp cheeses if you prefer.

Q: How do I store leftover mac and cheese?

A: If stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftover macaroni can last for up to 3 days.

Q: Is it possible to make Dolly Parton’s mac and cheese gluten-free?

A: Yes – simply substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free options such as brown rice or quinoa-based pastas.

Q: Can I add extra ingredients to Dolly Parton’s mac and cheese recipe?

A: Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite add-ins like cooked bacon or diced veggies.

Q: Does Dolly Parton’s mac and cheese freeze well?

A: Yes – once cooled completely, you can store leftovers in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Similar Posts