Pin This tangy, creamy dill pickle mac and cheese bake brings the ultimate comfort food together with an irresistible pickle twist. Every bite is packed with sharp cheddar, vibrant dill, and a crispy golden topper that makes it impossible to stop at one serving.
I first made this after craving something super cozy and new on a rainy night. The tang from the pickles made it such a hit that now my family expects it whenever we get together for movie night.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: brings a classic texture and holds the creamy sauce in every curl Use a shape that will catch sauce for best results
- Sharp cheddar cheese: is essential for deep cheese flavor and melty goodness Look for blocks and shred at home for best melt
- Whole milk: creates a rich creamy base Choose the freshest milk for the smoothest sauce
- Mozzarella cheese: adds stretch and extra melt Go for part skim variety for balance
- Cream cheese: makes the sauce ultra-silky and smooth Use full fat for the best texture
- Dill pickle brine: brings a unique tang and livens up every bite Make sure your brine is vibrant and not overly salty
- Dill pickles: give the dish its signature crunch and flavor Go for crisp pickles and chop finely for even flavor
- Fresh dill: provides a fresh burst and beautiful color Pick strong aromatic bunches
- Panko breadcrumbs: create the crispiest topping For maximum crunch choose unseasoned
- Parmesan cheese: adds a salty rich topper Grate fresh if possible for flavor and melt
- Unsalted butter: binds the sauce and crisps the topping Use good quality for best taste
- Garlic powder and onion powder: deepen the background notes Choose fresh spices for more aroma
- Salt and black pepper: boost and balance all flavors
Instructions
- Prepare and Preheat:
- Begin by heating your oven to 190 Celsius or 375 Fahrenheit Grease a 2 liter baking dish to prevent sticking and help browning
- Boil and Drain Pasta:
- Bring salted water to a rolling boil in a large pot Add macaroni and cook until barely tender about 7 minutes Drain thoroughly and set pasta aside This keeps the noodles from overcooking in the oven
- Make the Roux:
- In a large saucepan melt unsalted butter over medium heat Once it is foamy add flour Whisk constantly and cook for a full minute until lightly golden and aromatic This is crucial for a smooth lumpfree sauce
- Build the Cheese Sauce:
- Gradually pour milk into the butter and flour mixture Whisk constantly to avoid clumps Cook over medium stirring all the time for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon
- Melt in Cheeses:
- Lower the heat to medium low Add the shredded cheddar mozzarella and cubes of cream cheese Stir gently until everything melts and the sauce is smooth and glossy This is an important step for a silky finish
- Add Pickle Punch and Seasonings:
- Stir in the pickle brine along with garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper Make sure everything is fully dissolved so each spoonful bursts with flavor
- Mix Pasta and Pickles:
- Fold in the cooked macaroni chopped pickles and fresh dill Stir until all noodles are coated and the mixture looks evenly dotted with pickle and herbs
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Spoon or pour the saucy macaroni mixture into your greased baking dish and smooth the top to ensure even baking and browning
- Prepare Crispy Topping:
- In a small bowl combine panko breadcrumbs melted butter and grated Parmesan Stir until all crumbs are moistened for a perfectly crispy bite with every forkful
- Top the Casserole:
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the pasta Optionally add extra chopped pickles here for more pop and tang
- Bake Until Golden:
- Place dish in the center of your oven Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is deeply golden and bubbling at the edges This is when all the flavors come together
- Rest and Garnish:
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven Sprinkle plenty of fresh dill before serving for a beautiful finish and another boost of green flavor
Pin One of my favorite parts is the crisp pickle bits that surprise you in every scoop Growing up we always added extra fresh dill on top and that pop of green still makes me smile each time I serve this up at Sunday dinners
Storage Tips
Cool any leftovers completely and store covered in the refrigerator for up to four days This mac and cheese bakes up well for meal prep and reheats best in the oven or a toaster oven to maintain its crispy topping If freezing cool first then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to two months
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap in another short pasta such as cavatappi or rotini for a twist If sharp cheddar is not available Monterey Jack Gruyere or Colby cheese are tasty options Dairy free cheese and plant milk will work for a vegan version but may alter the flavor and texture Gluten free pasta and gluten free breadcrumbs are perfect substitutions for those with dietary restrictions
Serving Suggestions
This dill pickle mac and cheese shines as a main course with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli on the side For heartier meals offer it with veggie burgers fried chicken or as a side at a potluck It is also a popular hit at barbecues and game day parties
Cultural and Historical Context
Mac and cheese is a beloved American classic dating back centuries Adding dill pickles combines comfort food tradition with the distinctly modern pickle craze This creative twist draws inspiration from old school relish trays and the fresh herby flavors common in Eastern European cuisine
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring brighten the flavor with extra fresh dill or even a touch of lemon zest In summer serve with sliced garden tomatoes for a cool tangy contrast In winter add diced smoked cheese or a pinch of cayenne for warmth
Pin Every creamy, tangy, crunchy bite will win over both pickle lovers and mac and cheese purists. Try it once and this will become your signature comfort dish.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the macaroni just until al dente, as baking will further soften it. Drain promptly to avoid overcooking.
- → Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, try Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile, or mix cheeses for extra depth.
- → What kind of dill pickles work best?
Use crunchy whole dill pickles for maximum flavor and texture. Finely chop for even distribution.
- → Is there a gluten-free option?
Swap out the macaroni and breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions to make this dish gluten-free friendly.
- → How do I achieve a crisp topping?
Melt the butter and toss well with panko and Parmesan. Bake until the top is golden and bubbling.
- → Can I add more heat?
Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper or diced pickled jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.