Pickle-Fix Dill Pickle Mac (Print)

Creamy macaroni with sharp cheddar, tangy dill pickles, and golden breadcrumbs for a flavorful comfort food twist.

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz elbow macaroni

→ Cheese Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
06 - 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
07 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, cubed
08 - 2 tablespoons dill pickle brine

→ Pickle and Seasonings

09 - 3/4 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
10 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
14 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
15 - extra fresh dill, for garnish

→ Topping

16 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
17 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
18 - 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
19 - 1 tablespoon chopped dill pickle (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
02 - Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
03 - In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
04 - Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until sauce thickens, 4 to 5 minutes.
05 - Lower heat to medium-low. Add cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
06 - Mix in dill pickle brine, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
07 - Fold in drained macaroni, chopped pickles, and fresh dill. Stir until evenly combined.
08 - Transfer macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
09 - Mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan in a small bowl. Sprinkle mixture over mac and cheese. Add chopped dill pickle on top for extra tang, if desired.
10 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until topping is golden brown and filling is bubbling.
11 - Let stand for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra fresh dill before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Uses simple ingredients most kitchens already have
  • Big on flavor with plenty of options to customize
  • Mouthwatering contrast of creamy cheese and crunchy topping
  • Satisfies both mac and cheese fans and pickle lovers
  • Ready for the oven in under half an hour
02 -
  • Big boost of protein and calcium in every serving
  • Stays creamy and flavorful even after reheating
  • Picky eaters adore it but adults find it totally crave worthy
03 -
  • Never skip greasing the dish or you risk a stuck on mess
  • Whisk the sauce constantly for ultimate silkiness
  • Do not hesitate to add extra pickle brine if you crave a brighter tang
  • Resting after baking helps the sauce thicken slightly for perfect creamy slices
  • I learned to always let the cheese melt in slowly and gently or it can become grainy Patience here is always rewarded

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