Save to Pinterest A creamy, tangy macaroni and cheese infused with the bright flavor of dill pickles&aElig;an irresistible comfort food with a zesty kick.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter 2 tbsp all purpose flour 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk 170 g (6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 85 g (3 oz) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 2 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp garlic powder Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Pickle Twist: 120 g (about 1 cup) dill pickles, finely chopped 60 ml (1/4 cup) dill pickle juice 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Topping (optional): 60 g (1/2 cup) panko breadcrumbs 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) if baking with topping.
- Step 2:
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Step 4:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened (about 3 4 minutes).
- Step 5:
- Lower heat and add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Step 6:
- Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pickle juice, chopped pickles, and fresh dill. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7:
- Fold in the cooked macaroni until fully coated with the sauce.
- Step 8:
- (Optional) For a crunchy topping, mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese in a baking dish. Bake for 10 12 minutes until golden brown.
- Step 9:
- Garnish with extra chopped dill and serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest Required Tools
Large pot Saucepan Whisk Baking dish (optional, for topping) Cheese grater
Notes
For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne or sliced pickled jalapeños Swap cheddar for Gruyère or add a handful of mozzarella for extra creaminess Serve with a side of crispy dill pickle chips for crunch
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520 Total Fat: 27 g Carbohydrates: 49 g Protein: 21 g
Save to Pinterest Common Recipe Questions
- → What cheeses work best in this dish?
Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack provide creamy meltability and a balanced sharpness that complements the dill pickles.
- → Can I make this without baking the topping?
Yes, simply mix the macaroni and cheese and serve without the panko topping for a creamier texture.
- → How does the pickle juice affect the flavor?
The pickle juice adds a bright, tangy note that enhances the richness of the cheese sauce without overpowering it.
- → Is fresh dill necessary for the flavor?
Fresh dill adds a fragrant and herbaceous element that complements the pickles and brightens the dish.
- → What substitutions can I make for a spicier version?
Add cayenne pepper or sliced pickled jalapeños to introduce heat while maintaining the creamy, tangy base.