THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Mac and Cheese with a Dill Pickle Twist
This creamy and comforting mac and cheese gets a surprising burst of tangy flavor from dill pickles, adding a fun twist to a classic favorite. It’s an easy, delicious way to shake up your weeknight dinner routine.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Mac and Cheese with a Dill Pickle Twist
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by heating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 1 ½-quart casserole dish with cooking spray. Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the elbow macaroni until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite—about 7 minutes. Drain it and set it aside.
02
Step 2
While the pasta is cooking, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the flour and cook it for about 5 minutes until it turns a light golden color and smells a little nutty. Slowly whisk in the milk and keep cooking, stirring often, until the sauce thickens up nicely—this should take around 10 to 15 minutes.
03
Step 3
Once the sauce is thick, stir in the Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until they melt completely. Toss in the dill pickle relish, chopped onion, Sriracha, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together, then fold in the cooked macaroni. Pour this cheesy mixture into your prepared casserole dish.
04
Step 4
Next, butter both sides of some bread and tear it into chunks. Pulse the pieces in a food processor or blender until you have coarse crumbs. Sprinkle these crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
05
Step 5
Pop it into the oven and bake until it’s bubbling and golden brown on top, about 45 minutes. Let it cool just a bit before digging in!
Why you’ll love it
This dish combines the creamy comfort of classic mac and cheese with a tangy, unexpected crunch from dill pickles. The blend of rich cheese and zesty pickles creates a unique flavor that excites the taste buds and adds a fun twist to a familiar favorite.
How to serve
Serve warm with a side of fresh greens or a simple tomato salad to balance the richness. This dish also pairs well with crispy bacon or a light, citrusy coleslaw for extra texture and flavor contrast.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess, and add extra pickles fresh to keep the crunch.
