Delicious Dutch Oven Mac And Cheese Recipe
Quick & Easy Dutch Oven Baked Macaroni & Cheese Recipe
If you’re looking for a comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy, look no further than this Dutch Oven Mac And Cheese. This classic dish is taken to the next level by baking it in a Dutch oven, which gives it a crispy crust and creamy interior.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until it’s tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or large oven-safe pot over medium heat.
- Add the flour and constantly stir until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually add the milk to the pot, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Add the salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the pot and stir well.
- Add the grated cheddar cheese to the pot and stir until it’s melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the pot and stir until it’s coated evenly with the cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake the Dutch oven in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the Dutch oven from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
This Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese is perfect for a cozy night in or for feeding a crowd. It’s creamy, cheesy, and crispy all at once and will surely become a family favorite. If you like spicy foods, you can add Avocado Slices for a different style or chilies. Enjoy!
What To Serve With Dutch Oven Mac And Cheese?
Side Dishes.
There are many different sides that pair well with Dutch Oven Baked Macaroni & Cheese. Here are a few suggestions:
Roasted Vegetables – Roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts are a delicious and healthy side that pairs well with mac and cheese.
Green Salad – A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can balance out the richness of the mac and cheese.
Garlic Bread – A warm and crusty garlic bread can complement the creaminess of the mac and cheese and add some extra flavor.
Grilled or Roasted Meat – A grilled or roasted chicken breast, pork chop, or steak can add protein to the meal and balance the carb-heavy mac and cheese.
Baked Beans – Baked beans are a great option if you’re looking for a classic side dish to serve with your mac and cheese. The sweetness of the beans can complement the savory cheese sauce.
Ultimately, the choice of side dish will depend on your personal taste preferences and the occasion. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing.
Drinks.
We’ve put together some ideas for drinks to enjoy with this dish.
Red Wine – A medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Merlot can complement the richness of the cheese sauce and add some depth to the meal.
Beer – A crisp beer like a pilsner or lager can refresh your palate between bites if you prefer a cold beverage. Check our beer guide section here for some great ideas.
Lemonade – A refreshing glass of lemonade can cut through the richness of the mac and cheese and add some brightness to the meal.
Iced Tea – Sweet or unsweetened iced tea is a classic American beverage that pairs well with comfort foods like mac and cheese.
Sparkling Water – If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water can provide some effervescence and refreshment without adding any extra sweetness or calories.
Final Thoughts
This dutch oven mac and cheese dish is easy to make, very nice to eat, and can be stored if not eaten straight away. Dutch oven macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place the desired amount of macaroni and cheese in a shallow dish and cover it with foil. Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.