Introduction
Macaroni and cheese has become an iconic comfort food that transcends generations and cultural boundaries. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor are beloved by many. Whether served as a main dish or a sumptuous side, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to lively gatherings with friends.
The Outback Inspired Cheesy Mac Attack elevates this classic dish, bringing a touch of restaurant flair right into your own kitchen. By combining sharp cheddar cheese and mozzarella, this recipe promises a delightful, gooey cheesy experience. The addition of crumbled bacon enhances the flavor profile, while the optional breadcrumb topping offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce. This mac and cheese isn’t just a meal; it’s an indulgent experience that everyone will be excited to dig into.
This dish is perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or just a comforting weeknight dinner. It serves well hot out of the oven, and its rich combination of flavors and textures doesn’t just satisfy the palate but often leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Recipe Overview
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Servings/Yield: 4-6 servings
– Difficulty: Not specified in the recipe
Ingredients
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
– 2 tbsp butter (for greasing and optional topping)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the softened cream cheese, milk, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and heated through, ensuring no lumps remain.
3. Incorporate the Cheeses: Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the saucepan. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt completely into a creamy sauce.
4. Season the Sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until all the seasonings are well combined with the cheese sauce.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated with the rich and creamy mixture.
6. Fold in Bacon: Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mac and cheese.
7. Prepare for Baking (Optional): If you like a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
8. Add Breadcrumbs (Optional): In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese for a delightful crunch.
9. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving to add a fresh touch.
Cooking the Pasta
The cornerstone of a good macaroni and cheese is the pasta itself. Elbow macaroni is the preferred choice due to its ability to hold the creamy cheese sauce effectively. For optimal results, it’s crucial to cook the pasta to an al dente texture. This means the pasta should be cooked until it is firm to the bite, allowing it to absorb some of the cheese sauce without becoming overly mushy.
Begin by bringing salted water to a rolling boil. The salt not only enhances flavor but also helps the pasta maintain its integrity. Once the water is boiling, add the elbow macaroni and follow the package instructions for cooking time. After draining, it’s essential to set the pasta aside without rinsing it, as the starch on the pasta helps the sauce adhere better when mixed together later.
Preparing the Cheese Sauce
Creating a smooth and creamy cheese sauce is crucial for this Outback Inspired Cheesy Mac Attack. Begin by combining softened cream cheese, milk, and heavy cream in a medium saucepan. It’s advised to cook over medium heat, which allows the ingredients to warm gradually, reducing the risk of curdling. Stir continuously to achieve a lump-free mixture.
Once the cream base is hot and smooth, it’s time to incorporate the shredded cheeses. This step should be done gradually, adding the sharp cheddar and mozzarella in small portions. Stir constantly to ensure a consistent melt, and avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from becoming gritty. The result should be a velvety cheese sauce that is rich in flavor and ready to coat your pasta.
Incorporating the Cheeses
Incorporating the cheeses into your cream base is one of the most exciting parts of preparing this mac and cheese. The sharp cheddar cheese lends a bold flavor while the mozzarella contributes a stretchiness that elevates the overall texture of the dish. As you add the cheeses gradually, it is essential to stir continuously, allowing the cheese to fully integrate into the creamy base for a uniform consistency.
As the cheeses melt, they will transform the mixture into a delightful, gooey sauce. It’s essential to maintain medium heat during this process to ensure optimal melting without burning. Once fully melted, the mixture should be smooth and glossy. At this point, spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika can be added, layering additional flavor into the cheesy mixture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Shredded Sharp Cheddar and Mozzarella
Incorporating the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese into the sauce is a pivotal moment in creating your Outback Inspired Cheesy Mac Attack. Begin by ensuring that your cheese is freshly shredded. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can inhibit smooth melting.
To achieve a fully melted and creamy sauce, start by adding the cheddar cheese in small handfuls, stirring continuously. This gradual addition allows the cheese to integrate smoothly into the cream mixture, promoting a velvety texture. Once the cheddar is melted and fully incorporated, repeat the process with the mozzarella. The mozzarella enhances the dish with its stretchiness and additional creaminess.
Techniques for Achieving a Fully Melted and Creamy Sauce
For the best results, it is essential to keep the heat at medium – too high can result in the cheese becoming grainy or separating. Stirring constantly not only serves to combine the ingredients thoroughly but also helps prevent any scorching on the bottom of the pan, which could affect the overall taste of the sauce. Utilize a silicone spatula to scrape the sides and bottom of the pan as you stir, ensuring no lumps remain in the sauce.
Seasoning the Sauce
The choice of seasonings plays a crucial role in elevating the flavor profile of the cheese sauce. Garlic powder adds a subtle savory depth, while onion powder offers sweetness and warmth. Smoked paprika introduces a distinct smokiness that rounds out the richness inherent in cheese.
Adjusting salt and pepper to your taste is essential; everyone’s palate differs. Start with small increments, tasting as you go to avoid overpowering the dish. Proper seasoning enhances the overall flavor, making each component more pronounced.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
To achieve a creamy texture where every elbow macaroni is perfectly coated, it’s best to add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce in batches. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold the pasta into the sauce. This technique minimizes the risk of breaking the macaroni while ensuring an even distribution of sauce.
As you mix, the creamy sauce envelops the pasta, creating that beloved mac and cheese experience. The result is a luscious combination where every bite bursts with cheesy goodness.
Adding Bacon
The crumbled bacon in this recipe contributes not only to the flavor but also provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy cheese sauce. It’s critical to ensure the bacon is evenly distributed throughout the mac and cheese; fold it delicately into the mixture, just as you did with the pasta. This gentle approach helps maintain the texture of the bacon while allowing its flavor to infuse the entire dish.
For those looking for alternatives to bacon, consider using cooked mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth and texture without meat. This approach maintains the essence of the dish while catering to vegetarian preferences.
Preparing for Baking
If opting for the baked version of this cheesy delight, preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is essential. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking. Greasing the baking dish with butter not only helps with non-stick properties but also adds a slight richness to the crust.
While baking is optional, it offers advantages such as creating a golden, crispy top layer and intensifying the flavors through even heating. Additionally, the baking process allows the cheese sauce to meld with the pasta, enhancing the overall creaminess of the dish.
Adding Breadcrumb Topping
If you choose to add a breadcrumb topping, combine your breadcrumbs with melted butter in a small bowl. This mixture will yield a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. The butter helps the breadcrumbs toast to a lovely golden-brown color while also contributing to the flavor.
Sprinkling the breadcrumb mixture evenly across the top of the mac and cheese not only enhances its texture but also elevates the presentation, making for an inviting dish that is pleasing to the eye.
Baking the Mac and Cheese
Once your dish is assembled, place it in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, observing for a golden-brown top and bubbling sauce around the edges as visual indicators that it’s time to remove it from the oven. This step imbues the dish with an appealing crust while further enriching the flavors through the baking process.
A well-baked mac and cheese offers a harmony of textures: the creamy interior contrasted by the crispy top enhancement from the breadcrumbs.
Serving the Dish
Allow the mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes after baking. This cooling period enhances the flavors, letting them meld and settle. In terms of garnishing, sprinkle freshly sliced green onions over the top just before serving. These not only add a vibrant pop of color but also a refreshing layer of flavor.
For a sophisticated touch, consider serving the mac and cheese in individual ramekins. This presentation method creates an elegant dining experience and allows for a perfect portion for every guest.
Conclusion
The Outback Inspired Cheesy Mac Attack is a rich, creamy dish that combines the beloved flavors of cheddar and mozzarella with the savory crunch of bacon. With just 45 minutes from start to finish, it is a satisfying meal for any occasion. The optional breadcrumb topping and fresh green onions not only enhance the taste but also provide visual appeal, making this mac and cheese a standout dish.
Outback Inspired Cheesy Mac Attack Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- ½ cup cream cheese softened
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup cooked bacon crumbled
- ¼ cup green onions sliced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- In a saucepan, combine cream cheese, milk, and heavy cream over medium heat until smooth.
- Gradually add sharp cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until melted.
- Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Fold in crumbled bacon evenly throughout the mixture.
- For a baked version, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.