Sarah BrownIf you’re thinking about whipping up a batch of Boston Market Mac and Cheese, you’ll want to consider what to pair it with to create a satisfying meal. This dish is rich and creamy, making it a perfect complement to lighter sides.
A fresh garden salad can balance the indulgence of mac and cheese. Just toss together some greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. Grilled chicken or turkey also makes an excellent protein partner.
The grilled flavor contrasts beautifully with the cheese. For a more casual take, offer some crispy bacon or sausage as toppings. Finally, a simple dessert like lemon sorbet can refresh the palate and finish off your meal nicely.
Let me take you back to a cozy corner of Boston where the aroma of comfort food fills the air. I remember the first time I stepped into Boston Market.
The warm, inviting ambiance made you feel at home, and the choices — oh, the choices! But what lured me most was the mac and cheese.
After several tastings and some experimentation, I knew it was time to recreate that creamy, cheesy masterpiece at home.
This copycat recipe for Boston Market Mac and Cheese combines creamy American cheese with sharp cheddar, creating a rich flavor that will remind you of your dining experience. It’s a dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart.
Get ready for a delicious journey through flavors and textures, as I guide you step by step through this recipe.
What is Boston Market Mac And Cheese?
Essentially, this is the homemade version of Boston Market’s famous mac and cheese. It stands out thanks to its creaminess and depth of flavor.
The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy American cheese results in a unique taste that’s both familiar and delightful. What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare at home with just a few ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
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What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Imagine biting into a bowl of macaroni layered with molten cheese. The flavors are a delightful dance between creamy and tangy, with a hint of smokiness from the paprika.
This recipe uses robust sharp cheddar, adding depth to each bite. Meanwhile, the rich American cheese brings an element of creaminess that stretches and pulls as you savor each spoonful. In short, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Why You’ll Love This
You’ll love this recipe for several reasons. First, it is ridiculously easy to make. Even novice cooks can throw this together with minimal fuss.
Second, it uses simple ingredients that are sometimes overlooked but yield fantastic results. Plus, it’s versatile — you can easily modify it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Lastly, the satisfaction of making a beloved dish right in your kitchen is second to none. And let’s be honest: who doesn’t love mac and cheese?
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk or 2%, warmed slightly
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds warmth without overpowering)
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard or ground mustard powder (use Dijon for more depth)
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional for tang)
- 8 ounces cooked semolina rotini pasta
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (equivalent to 1 stick)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds subtle savoriness)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¾ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces creamy American cheese, shredded or chopped
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of semolina rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. When done, drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Create the Roux
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once it’s melted and bubbling, whisk in ½ cup of all-purpose flour.
Keep whisking for about 2 to 3 minutes until it’s golden brown. This creates a roux that will help thicken your cheese sauce.
Step 3: Add Milk and Seasonings
Gradually add 4 cups of your warmed milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
Bring it to a simmer, adding in ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of Dijon, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it bubble for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and add in your cheeses. Combine ¾ cup of shredded sharp cheddar and 8 ounces of shredded American cheese into the mixture.
Stir until completely melted and creamy. If you’re feeling bold, toss in ½ cup of crumbled blue cheese for an extra kick.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Once the cheese is melted, add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir together until every piece of pasta is well coated. This is where the magic happens — creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Bake (Optional)
If you like a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs if desired. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Tricks
- Preheat Your Ingredients: Warm your milk slightly. This can speed up the process of thickening your cheese sauce.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses for a personalized flavor profile. Gruyère or Monterey Jack work wonderfully.
- Add a Protein: Consider mixing in some shredded chicken or crispy bacon to turn this dish into a full meal.
- Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, consider using them in a breakfast casserole or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Nutrition Information
The nutrition of your serving may vary based on your specific ingredient choices. On average, one serving of this mac and cheese contains:
- Calories: 500–600
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fat: 28g
- Sodium: 700mg
How Can You Store This Boston Market Mac And Cheese Copycat Recipe?
This mac and cheese can be stored easily in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Microwave or bake until heated through.
Alternative Ingredient Choices
- Pasta Type: If you’re out of semolina rotini, elbow macaroni works great. It’s a classic choice that holds cheese sauce well.
- Milk Alternatives: Instead of whole milk, you can use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just ensure they are unsweetened.
- Cheese Options: For a lighter dish, opt for low-fat cheese. It won’t melt as smoothly but will bring down the calories.
Boston Market Mac And Cheese Copycat Recipe
Equipment
- Cup
- Teaspoons
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk or 2% warmed slightly
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika adds warmth without overpowering
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard or ground mustard powder use Dijon for more depth
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese optional for tang
- 8 ounces cooked semolina rotini pasta
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter equivalent to 1 stick
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder adds subtle savoriness
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¾ cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 8 ounces creamy American cheese shredded or chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of semolina rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. When done, drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Create the Roux
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once it’s melted and bubbling, whisk in ½ cup of all-purpose flour.
- Keep whisking for about 2 to 3 minutes until it’s golden brown. This creates a roux that will help thicken your cheese sauce.
Step 3: Add Milk and Seasonings
- Gradually add 4 cups of your warmed milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Bring it to a simmer, adding in ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of Dijon, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it bubble for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low and add in your cheeses. Combine ¾ cup of shredded sharp cheddar and 8 ounces of shredded American cheese into the mixture.
- Stir until completely melted and creamy. If you’re feeling bold, toss in ½ cup of crumbled blue cheese for an extra kick.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Once the cheese is melted, add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir together until every piece of pasta is well coated. This is where the magic happens — creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Bake (Optional)
- If you like a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs if desired. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Preheat Your Ingredients: Warm your milk slightly. This can speed up the process of thickening your cheese sauce.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses for a personalized flavor profile. Gruyère or Monterey Jack work wonderfully.
- Add a Protein: Consider mixing in some shredded chicken or crispy bacon to turn this dish into a full meal.
- Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, consider using them in a breakfast casserole or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the mac and cheese and store it in the fridge before baking. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven. This makes it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not in its current form due to the flour and pasta. You can replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
3. Can I freeze this mac and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it. After preparing, allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When reheating, do so slowly to keep it creamy.
4. How do I make this dish vegan?
You can swap the dairy for plant-based alternatives. Use cashew cream or a vegan cheese blend, and take out any animal-derived ingredients to keep it entirely plant-based.
5. What can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat, or mix in steamed broccoli for added nutrition and crunch. You can even throw in some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an earthy flavor touch.
Conclusion
This Boston Market Mac And Cheese Copycat Recipe brings together the best of comfort food in an easy, delicious way. With simple ingredients you can easily find, it transforms your kitchen into a cozy diner where everyone feels at home.
Whether you serve it alongside grilled chicken, a fresh salad, or keep it as the star of the show, it’s sure to impress. Remember, cooking is about exploration and enjoyment. So grab your cheese, pasta, and let’s get cooking! Enjoy this delightful dish and watch how quickly it becomes a household favorite.
