Irish Cheddar & Stout Mac and Cheese Bake
Guinness and Irish Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love. Creamy, cheesy, and richly flavored, this Irish Cheddar & Stout Mac and Cheese Bake blends sharp Irish cheddar with hearty stout beer, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every single bite. As it bakes, the top becomes golden and crispy, while the inside stays luxuriously creamy. Trust me, this combination will bring your mac and cheese game to an entirely new level.
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This dish holds a special place in my heart, closely linked to cozy nights spent with friends and family. The first time I prepared this Irish-inspired recipe, it quickly became a staple in our household. The simple ingredients come together effortlessly, and within an hour, you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for dinner parties, game nights, or even just a comforting weeknight meal. I can’t wait for you to try making this Irish Cheddar & Stout Mac and Cheese Bake—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Whip this up in just about 80 minutes—30 for prep and 50 for baking.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of stout and sharp cheddar creates a rich, creamy comfort food experience.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The crispy panko topping adds a delightful crunch and makes it visually appealing on any table.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in—you can enjoy it anytime!
- Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients and no fuss, it’s an affordable dinner choice that feels indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound elbow macaroni: A classic pasta shape that holds the cheesy sauce beautifully. You can substitute with cavatappi or shells if desired.
- 2 tablespoons butter: A must for sautéing and adds richness to the cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce to create that creamy texture.
- ⅔ cup Guinness or other stout: This rich beer lends its deep flavors to the sauce. If you prefer non-alcoholic, opt for a good quality non-alcoholic stout.
- 1 ½ cups 2% milk: Adds creaminess without being too heavy. Whole milk works too!
- ½ cup half and half: For an extra touch of creaminess; you can replace it with heavy cream if you want it richer.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the overall flavors. Adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: A little hint of spice; fresh pepper is best for more flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a hint of tangy flavor—don’t skip it!
- 2 ounces cream cheese: This ingredient makes the sauce velvety smooth. You can use neufchâtel as a lower-fat alternative.
- 3 ½ cups shredded cheddar (or another good melting cheese): Sharp Irish Cheddar adds that signature flavor; feel free to mix with mozzarella for extra melty goodness.
- 1½ tablespoons butter: For toasting the breadcrumbs to perfection.
- 2 teaspoons finely minced garlic: Gives a warm, aromatic touch.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy topping; traditional breadcrumbs will work in a pinch.
- Salt/Pepper to taste: Final seasoning for your taste preference.
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley: A fresh garnish that adds color and a hint of brightness.
How to Make Irish Cheddar & Stout Mac and Cheese Bake
Melt Butter: In a medium skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the finely minced garlic and panko breadcrumbs. Cook, stirring frequently, until the breadcrumbs become lightly toasted and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in the minced parsley. Set this delicious mix aside for later.
Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente according to the package instructions. Make sure to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta; this liquid can be useful for adjusting the sauce later.
Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour. Whisk together for about a minute to cook the flour slightly. Gradually pour in ⅔ cup of Guinness, 1 ½ cups of 2% milk, ½ cup of half and half, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Bring this concoction to a simmer, whisking frequently, until it thickens slightly, which should take around 4-5 minutes.
Add Cheeses: Once your sauce has thickened, stir in the 2 ounces of cream cheese and 2½ cups of shredded cheddar until completely smooth and combined. Then, add the drained, cooked elbow macaroni, thoroughly mixing to combine. Stir in the remaining 1 cup of cheddar and let it sit over low heat for a few minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up some cheesy goodness and promote that iconic cheese pull.
Bake: Transfer the creamy mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the toasted breadcrumb mixture over the top, then dot with 1½ tablespoons of butter for extra crispiness. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
Once it’s done, serve immediately and enjoy that enticing aroma wafting through the kitchen!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 hours or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked Irish Cheddar & Stout Mac and Cheese Bake for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s in a well-sealed container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to maintain moisture. Expect the texture to slightly change when reheated; adding a splash of milk can help revive creaminess.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Watch the breadcrumbs closely while toasting; they can burn quickly.
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing into the sauce.
- Not a fan of stout? Try using a dark lager or even chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste; a bit more salt can make all the difference.
- Feel free to add some cooked bacon or veggies like spinach or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
It’s hard to go wrong with a recipe that combines the comforting elements of macaroni and cheese with the robust flavors of Irish cheese and stout. This Irish Cheddar & Stout Mac and Cheese Bake isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience that brings a touch of warmth and coziness. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting friends, or simply craving a hearty meal, this mac and cheese is here to satisfy those cravings and more. Don’t hesitate to play around with ingredients and make it your own—after all, food is best when it reflects our personal tastes. So go ahead, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this wonderfully comforting Irish-inspired dish!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance by assembling it in the baking dish. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it off, adding an extra few minutes to account for it being cold from the fridge.
Can I use any kind of cheese?
While sharp Irish cheddar is recommended for a true flavor experience, feel free to mix in other good melting cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack. Just keep the total cheese amount the same to maintain the creamy texture.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! To make the Irish Cheddar & Stout Mac and Cheese Bake gluten-free, substitute elbow macaroni with a gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend in the cheese sauce. Be sure to check the stout label for gluten-free options too.
Can I add extra ingredients?
Of course! You can customize this dish by adding in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even some fresh spinach. Adjust the quantities as you please, but be mindful not to overcrowd the dish so it stays creamy and delicious.
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📖 Recipe Card
Irish Cheddar & Stout Mac and Cheese Bake
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
This Irish Cheddar & Stout Mac and Cheese Bake stands out with its indulgent flavors created by sharp cheddar and rich stout. It’s simple to prepare and makes a delightful meal that comforts and satisfies. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish guarantees to impress with its cheesy goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ⅔ cup guinness or other stout
- 1 ½ cups 2% milk
- ½ cup half and half
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 2 ounces cream cheese, cut into pieces
- 3 ½ cups shredded cheddar
- 1½ tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons finely minced garlic
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- salt/pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the garlic and panko breadcrumbs; cook while stirring until the breadcrumbs are lightly toasted and fragrant. Remove from heat, season with salt, pepper, and add minced parsley. Set aside.
- In a pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the stout, followed by the milk and half and half, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Add in the salt, pepper, dijon mustard, cream cheese, and 2 cups of cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and combined.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and the toasted breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
Using a combination of cheeses can provide a more complex taste. Feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
