mac n cheese pie recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
mac n cheese pie recipe
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The Best mac n cheese pie recipe

I have been making this mac n cheese pie for years and it is always a hit in my house. My kids love it because it has that creamy mac and cheese they crave but with a fun pie shape that makes dinner feel special. I love it because it is easy to put together and uses ingredients I usually have on hand. It is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a holiday side dish. The best part is that it feels like comfort food but you can sneak in some extra protein and veggies if you want.

This mac n cheese pie starts with a simple pie crust that gets nice and flaky in the oven. The filling is a classic mac and cheese made with sharp cheddar and a little cream cheese for extra creaminess. I like to use elbow macaroni but any small pasta works well. The key is to cook the pasta just al dente so it does not get mushy when you bake it. Then you mix the pasta with the cheese sauce and pour it into the crust.

You can add some cooked bacon or chopped broccoli if your family likes that. The technique here is all about getting that creamy cheese sauce right. You start with a roux of butter and flour then whisk in milk slowly until it thickens. Then you add the cheese and stir until it melts. This method gives you a smooth sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.

Once you pour it into the crust you bake it until the top is golden and bubbly. The crust stays crispy on the bottom and the filling stays soft and cheesy. This recipe is also great because you can make it ahead of time. You can assemble the whole pie and keep it in the fridge for a day before baking. Then just pop it in the oven when you are ready.

It is also a good way to use up leftover cheese or pasta. My family loves when I make this for Sunday dinner because it feels like a treat. And honestly it is not that unhealthy. You get protein from the cheese and milk and carbs from the pasta. Plus you can control the salt and fat by using low fat milk or reduced fat cheese.

It is a balanced meal that everyone enjoys.

Mac N Cheese Pie

Mac N Cheese Pie

4.8 from 981 votes

A creamy and cheesy mac and cheese baked inside a flaky pie crust. This dish combines the comfort of classic mac and cheese with the fun of a pie.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter cubed
3 to 4 tablespoons ice water

For the Mac and Cheese Filling

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Make the pie crust by mixing flour and salt in a bowl.
3Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
4Add ice water one tablespoon at a time and stir with a fork until the dough comes together.
5Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6This helps the crust stay flaky.
7While the dough chills, cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente.
8Drain the pasta and set it aside.
9Do not overcook because the pasta will bake later.
10In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
11Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute until it smells nutty.
12Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
13Continue whisking the sauce until it thickens and bubbles, about 3 to 4 minutes.
14Remove the pan from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and paprika until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
15Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated.
16On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches wide.
17Gently press the dough into a 9 inch pie dish and trim the edges.
18Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the pie crust and spread it evenly.
19Fold the overhanging dough edges over the filling if you want a rustic look.
20Bake the pie for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
21Let the pie cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.
22This allows the filling to set so the slices hold their shape.
23Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.

🔧Equipment

9 inch pie dish
Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Mixing bowl
Rolling pin
Fork

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 13g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 17g

📝Notes

You can use a store bought pie crust to save time. For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta and low fat milk. Add cooked broccoli or chicken for extra nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Mac N Cheese Pie Works

I always keep this mac n cheese pie in mind for busy weeknights or when I need a dish to bring to a potluck. To store leftovers, just cover the pie dish with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They will stay good for up to three days.

To reheat, you can use the microwave for a quick fix or pop slices in a 350 degree oven for about 10 minutes to get the crust crispy again. For serving, I like to pair this pie with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. It also works great as a side dish for grilled chicken or steak.

If you are having a family gathering, you can make two pies and cut them into wedges for easy serving. Everyone always asks for the recipe and I am happy to share it. This mac n cheese pie is a reliable dish that brings smiles to the table every time.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mac N Cheese Pie

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes you can use any small pasta shape like shells, rotini, or penne. The cooking time may vary slightly so check the package directions. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it does not get too soft during baking.

2. Can I make this mac n cheese pie ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the entire pie and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you are ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it is cold from the fridge.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or in a 350 degree oven for 10 minutes until warmed through.

4. Can I freeze this mac n cheese pie?

Yes you can freeze the unbaked pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When you are ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed, adding about 10 minutes to the cooking time.

5. What can I add to make it more filling?

You can add cooked bacon, diced ham, or cooked ground beef for protein. For vegetables, try steamed broccoli, peas, or sauteed mushrooms. Just mix them into the mac and cheese before pouring it into the crust.

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