What if your beloved comfort food could be reimagined as a dazzling gourmet dish? Introducing Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese, a recipe crafted to elevate classic mac and cheese into an extraordinary culinary creation. This dish transcends the typical cheesy pasta, offering a lavish, creamy experience that combines nostalgia with a touch of sophistication. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to delight your palate and leave your guests thoroughly impressed.
The Evolution of Macaroni and Cheese:
Macaroni and cheese, often seen as a staple comfort food, has an intriguing history rooted in simplicity. This beloved dish originated in Europe, but it found its true calling in America during the colonial period, largely due to Thomas Jefferson’s fondness for pasta. As the years passed, mac and cheese has undergone numerous transformations, with culinary artists worldwide introducing their unique flavors and ingredients. One of the most remarkable interpretations is Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese, which exemplifies the fusion of opulent components with traditional comfort fare, creating a dish that is both decadent and familiar.
The Cheesy Delight:
The best mac & cheeses I’ve had usually incorporate three distinct cheeses: a gooey melting cheese, a zesty cheese for added flavor, and a sharper cheese to elevate the taste. For this million-dollar mac, I opted for Pecorino Romano as my sharp accent cheese, while choosing to break tradition with fontina and French raclette as my melting favorites. Both of these cheeses melt beautifully and offer a rich, complex flavor. French raclette is particularly well-suited for creating that dreamy mac & cheese sauce, achieving a luxurious, fondue-like consistency that delivers impressive cheese pulls beyond your imagination.
This delightful trio of cheeses justifies the million-dollar moniker, so even if these ingredients aren’t typically in your kitchen, I encourage you to hunt them down for this recipe. If you simply can’t find them, consider mixing comté and Camembert or Gruyère and brie with the Pecorino as flavorful substitutes to achieve a similar experience.
The Crunchy Topping:
Given the rich and creamy nature of this mac & cheese, a crispy topping is essential. Pre-toasting panko breadcrumbs in butter on the stovetop guarantees a beautifully golden topping without the anxiety of babysitting the broiler. Opting for high-quality European-style butter, rich in butterfat, not only enhances the topping but also amplifies the overall decadence of this million-dollar dish. My testing revealed that the breadcrumbs didn’t achieve much additional browning in the oven while on top, so if you’re worried about them becoming too dark, consider lightly covering the pan with foil.
Although the gold leaf garnish adds a whimsical touch that fits the “million-dollar” theme perfectly, it’s entirely optional. Feel free to use it for flair, but don’t feel pressured to do so!
Storage Tips:
Leftover mac & cheese can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, simply cover and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through, or warm it in the oven in a covered ceramic dish if you have a substantial amount.
Ingredients:
- Cooking spray
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8 ounces fontina cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces French raclette cheese, shredded
- 3 ounces Pecorino Romano cheese, finely shredded
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- Kosher salt
- 1 lb. cavatappi pasta
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (preferably with at least 82% butterfat), divided
- 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- Gold leaf for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1
Position an oven rack in the center and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 13″ x 9″ baking dish by greasing it with cooking spray.
Step 2
In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the pasta, stirring occasionally. Check the pasta two minutes before the time indicated on the package; it should be just al dente. Once ready, drain the pasta.
Step 3
While the pasta cooks, melt 8 tablespoons of butter in another large pot over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, cooking while stirring continuously until the mixture begins to bubble and slightly darkens in color, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 4
Slowly whisk in both the whole milk and evaporated milk. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Then, mix in the mustard and season with pepper to taste.
Step 5
Remove the pot from heat and incorporate the fontina, French raclette, and Pecorino Romano cheeses. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the cheese until it fully melts and the sauce is creamy and smooth. If needed, return the pot to low heat to ensure all cheese is melted. Adjust seasoning with salt if necessary, and then mix in the pasta until well coated.
Step 6
In a wide skillet over medium-low heat, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the panko bread crumbs and season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the bread crumbs are golden brown.
Step 7
Transfer the pasta and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the crispy panko bread crumbs for added texture.
Step 8
Bake the mac and cheese in the preheated oven, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it is heated through and the top is crispy. If desired, garnish with gold leaf before serving.
FAQs:
What cheeses work best for Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese?
A blend of Gruyère, sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and Parmesan offers the ideal balance of flavor and texture, creating a creamy and delicious dish.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour alternative for the roux to keep it gluten-free.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain texture.
What’s the secret ingredient?
Truffle oil! A drizzle of truffle oil adds a luxurious aroma and enhances the overall depth of flavor in the dish.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Just bake it before serving for the best taste and texture.
How can I make it healthier?
To create a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk, reducing the amount of cheese, and omitting the buttery topping while still achieving great flavor.
Conclusion:
Million-Dollar Mac & Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that redefines comfort food. With its rich, creamy texture and robust flavors, this dish is perfect for any occasion, sure to impress both family and guests alike. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, be prepared for everyone to keep coming back for seconds. Treat yourself to this ultimate indulgence today and make your next meal truly unforgettable!
