Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with a twist on a classic favorite: Mac and Cheese Pie! This indulgent dish combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with the delightful presentation of a pie. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe promises to be a showstopper at your dinner table. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will leave your guests begging for seconds. Are you ready to dive into this cheesy delight? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 4 cups cheese, shredded
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your Mac and Cheese Pie bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. Drain the macaroni and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the cheese sauce.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add in 3 cups of the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Mix well until the macaroni is fully coated with the cheese mixture.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. Stir the beaten eggs into the macaroni and cheese mixture, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased pie dish or a 9-inch round baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top of the macaroni and cheese mixture to create a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pie is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the Mac and Cheese Pie from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will help it hold its shape when serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Mac and Cheese Pie with a side salad or your favorite vegetables!
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Macaroni: To achieve the ideal texture, cook the macaroni just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, so you want it slightly firm to the bite.
- Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce: When adding the milk to the roux, whisk continuously to prevent lumps. If you find lumps, you can use an immersion blender to smooth out the sauce.
- Cheese Selection: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for added flavor. Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a touch of blue cheese can elevate the taste.
- Let it Rest: Allow the pie to cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your Mac and Cheese Pie with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It also makes for great leftovers—just reheat and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 110mg
