There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a perfect mac and cheese, and Beecher’s version has always been a standout for me. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a favorite among friends and family whenever we gather around the table. I’ve always admired Beecher’s ability to balance gooey cheese with that perfect bite of pasta.
Recreating this beloved dish at home felt like a delicious challenge I was eager to take on. After some experimentation, I finally nailed a copycat recipe that mirrors the original’s magic. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Beecher’s, this homemade version is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into making this irresistible mac and cheese and bring a bit of Beecher’s charm to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Tools and Equipment
To master Beecher’s Mac and Cheese at home, I rely on the following tools and equipment:
- Large Pot
Ideal for boiling elbow macaroni, ensuring there’s ample space to prevent sticking.
- Colander
Efficiently drains the cooked pasta, removing excess water without losing any noodles.
- Medium-Sized Saucepan
Perfect for creating the rich and creamy cheese sauce.
- Whisk
Ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce by thoroughly blending the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Guarantees precise measurements for consistent flavor and texture.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Essential for stirring the sauce and mixing the macaroni evenly.
- Grater
Finely grates sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses for optimal melting.
- Baking Dish
Provides a suitable container if you prefer a baked, crispy top for your mac and cheese.
- Oven
Necessary for baking, typically preheated to 350°F (175°C) for a golden finish.
- Mixing Bowls
Useful for organizing and preparing ingredients before cooking.
- Aluminum Foil
Helps cover the baking dish to prevent over-browning during the oven phase.
Having these tools on hand makes recreating Beecher’s Mac and Cheese seamless and enjoyable, allowing me to focus on perfecting each step for that rich, comforting dish.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a creamy and delicious Beecher’s Mac and Cheese right in your kitchen.
Prep
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gather all ingredients and measure them accurately. |
| 2 | Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). |
| 3 | Grate 2 cups sharp cheddar, 1 cup Gruyère, and ½ cup Parmesan cheese. |
| 4 | Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside. |
| 5 | Prepare all necessary tools, including a large pot, colander, saucepan, whisk, and mixing bowls. |
Cook Pasta
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. |
| 2 | Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. |
| 3 | Add 12 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. |
| 4 | Drain the pasta using a colander and return it to the pot. |
Prepare Cheese Sauce
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup unsalted butter over medium heat. |
| 2 | Whisk in ½ cup all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. |
| 3 | Gradually pour in 2 cups whole milk and ½ cup heavy cream, whisking to prevent lumps. |
| 4 | Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. |
| 5 | Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. |
| 6 | Season the cheese sauce with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of paprika. |
Combine and Bake
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir until fully coated. |
| 2 | Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. |
| 3 | Sprinkle an additional ½ cup of shredded cheese on top for a crispy finish. |
| 4 | Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. |
| 5 | Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. |
| 6 | Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. |
| 7 | Let the mac and cheese sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set. |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Beecher’s Mac and Cheese in advance allows you to enjoy this comforting dish with minimal effort when you’re ready to serve. Here’s how I manage to have it ready to go, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Step 1: Assemble the Mac and Cheese
- Prepare the Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Follow the recipe instructions to cook the elbow macaroni until al dente and prepare the creamy cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, cream, and your blend of cheeses.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce thoroughly to ensure every bite is rich and creamy.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly for consistent baking.
Step 2: Cool and Store
- Let It Cool: Allow the assembled mac and cheese to cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation and keeps the texture smooth.
- Cover Securely: Use aluminum foil or an airtight lid to cover the baking dish tightly.
- Refrigerate or Freeze:
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, place the covered dish in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate | Up to 2 days | Ensure the dish is tightly covered. |
| Freeze | Up to 3 months | Label with date and contents. |
Step 3: Reheat and Bake
When you’re ready to enjoy your mac and cheese, follow these steps to reheat and bake it to perfection.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Thaw if Frozen: If frozen, place the baking dish in the refrigerator overnight to thaw. For quicker thawing, you can leave it at room temperature for a few hours.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from over-browning. Bake for 25 minutes if refrigerated or 45 minutes if thawed from frozen.
- Uncover and Brown: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the mac and cheese sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to set, making it easier to serve.
Tips for Success
- Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Cook the macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue to cook during reheating.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar and Gruyère for a robust flavor that stands out after storage.
- Stir Gently: When combining the pasta and sauce, stir gently to maintain the creamy texture without breaking the pasta.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can ensure that your Beecher’s Mac and Cheese remains as delicious and satisfying as when it was freshly made. Whether you refrigerate or freeze, proper preparation and storage will keep this favorite dish ready to delight your family and friends.
Serving Suggestions
As a chef who loves experimenting with flavors, I find that Beecher’s Mac and Cheese shines brightest when paired with complementary dishes and creative twists. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this creamy masterpiece:
Classic Pairings
Nothing beats the traditional combination of mac and cheese with a fresh green salad. The crispness of the greens balances the rich, creamy texture of the cheese.
- Garden Salad: Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add a vibrant touch and extra nutrients.
Protein Boosts
Enhance your mac and cheese by adding a protein-packed side or topping. This not only makes the meal more filling but also introduces new flavors and textures.
- Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken breast adds a savory element.
- Bacon Crumbles: Sprinkle crispy bacon on top for a smoky crunch.
- Pulled Pork: For a hearty option, mix in some tender pulled pork.
Gourmet Toppings
Elevate your mac and cheese with gourmet toppings that add depth and sophistication to each bite.
- Truffle Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of truffle oil introduces an earthy aroma.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Toasted panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.
Spicy Additions
If you like a bit of heat, incorporating spicy elements can take your mac and cheese to the next level.
- Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled jalapeños introduce a sharp kick.
- Hot Sauce: A few drops of your favorite hot sauce can spice things up.
- Pepper Jack Cheese: Swap some of the cheddar for pepper jack to infuse heat directly into the dish.
Baking Variations
Transform your mac and cheese into a complete meal by baking it with additional ingredients.
- Mac and Cheese Casserole: Add layers of sautéed mushrooms and spinach before baking for a hearty casserole.
- Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with mac and cheese and bake until tender for a colorful presentation.
- Cheese-Stuffed Bread: Hollow out a loaf of bread and fill it with mac and cheese, then bake until golden and bubbly.
Beverage Pairings
Complement your mac and cheese with beverages that enhance the meal’s flavors.
- Crisp White Wine: A Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea balances the richness of the dish.
- Craft Beer: A light lager or a pale ale can add a frothy contrast to each bite.
Presentation Tips
Presenting your mac and cheese attractively can make the meal feel even more special.
- Serve in Individual Bowls: Portioning the mac and cheese into individual ramekins adds a personal touch.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of paprika or a few fresh herb leaves can enhance the visual appeal.
- Use a Rustic Platter: Presenting the dish on a wooden serving board emphasizes its comfort food nature.
By exploring these serving suggestions, you can customize Beecher’s Mac and Cheese to suit any occasion or personal preference. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these ideas will help you create a memorable and delicious meal.
Conclusion
Bringing Beecher’s mac and cheese into my home kitchen was such a fun adventure. Seeing everyone enjoy each creamy, cheesy bite made all the effort worth it. I love how versatile this recipe is and how easy it is to customize to your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or hosting a big gathering this dish is a guaranteed hit. I hope you give it a try and create your own delicious memories with this homemade favorite.
