patti labelle mac and cheese recipe

The Best patti labelle mac and cheese recipe

I’ve been making Patti LaBelle’s mac and cheese recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My kids love it, and I love how easy it is to make. The creamy sauce and al dente pasta are a perfect combination that never fails to please. I remember trying it for the first time at a family gathering, and everyone raved about it.

Since then, it’s become a go-to dish for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event. The best part? It’s surprisingly healthy, with just the right amount of cheese and no artificial preservatives or additives. My kids can’t get enough of it, and I appreciate how well it fits into our busy schedules.

This recipe has been perfected over the years, and I’m excited to share it with you so you can enjoy it too. Mac and cheese is one of those comfort foods that never goes out of style. It’s a classic American dish that’s been around for generations, with its roots in traditional European recipes like macaroni au gratin. What sets Patti LaBelle’s version apart is the use of a roux-based sauce instead of the more common bechamel or mornay sauces.

This gives the dish a rich, velvety texture that’s simply divine. One of the things I love about this recipe is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs. Want to make it vegan? Simply substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk instead of heavy cream.

Need gluten-free? Swap out the traditional macaroni for gluten-free pasta or even try using zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. In terms of technique, this recipe requires some basic cooking skills like making a roux from scratch. Don’t worry if you’re new to this – it’s easier than you think!

With practice, you’ll be whipping up rouxes like a pro in no time. If you’re looking for a recipe that will impress your family and friends alike, look no further than Patti LaBelle’s mac and cheese. It’s an old-school dish that never goes out of style, with its creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Patti LaBelle Mac and Cheese

4.9 from 1925 votes

This rich and creamy mac and cheese is inspired by Patti LaBelle’s famous recipe. It features a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for a decadent, comforting side dish.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk, warmed
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese

For the Topping

1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°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 7 minutes, then drain and set aside.
4In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter.
5Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
6Gradually whisk in the warmed milk and heavy cream.
7Continue whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5 minutes.
8The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
9Reduce the heat to low and stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using.
10Add the 2 cups sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mild cheddar cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
11Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in the saucepan, stirring until every piece is coated.
12Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
13In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted 2 tablespoons of butter.
14Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture and the remaining 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the mac and cheese.
15Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
16Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 32g💛Saturated Fat: 19g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon. You can also substitute the Monterey Jack with Gouda for a smokier flavor.

Watch Video Of How Patti LaBelle Mac and Cheese Works

This mac and cheese recipe has become an integral part of our family gatherings and special events – always disappearing quickly regardless of age or taste preferences!

It’s incredibly versatile; feel free to experiment with different cheeses or spices to find your perfect combination.

To keep this dish fresh for longer periods, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature (up to 3 days) or refrigerate/freeze as instructed earlier.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Patti LaBelle Mac and Cheese

1.

Q: What type of pasta should I use?

A: For this recipe, you want to use al dente macaroni – not too hard or too soft.

2.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead?

A: Yes! You can prep all the ingredients except the cheese in advance – then assemble and bake when ready.

3.

Q: Is there any way to make this recipe lower-calorie?

A: While still maintaining its creamy texture, try substituting half-and-half with almond milk or another low-fat alternative.

4.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

A: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of milk if needed after baking.

5.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Absolutely! Let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag – thaw as needed.

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