Boston Market Mac And Cheese Copycat Recipe
If 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.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 500 kcal
- 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 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
- 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.
Calories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 20gFat: 28gSodium: 700mg
Keyword Boston Market Mac And Cheese Copycat Recipe