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
Scale
- 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