SKILLET MAC AND CHEESE

facebook share image   twitter share image   pinterest share image   E-Mail share image



Skillet Mac and Cheese image

Serving mac and cheese in the skillet it's baked in amps up the homey comfort factor. The secret ingredient in this bread crumb-topped beauty is the finely chopped cauliflower that blends in subtly with the pasta. Using three different cheeses guarantees maximum flavor and meltability.

Provided by Ellie Krieger

Categories     main-dish

Yield Serves 6

Number Of Ingredients 16

2 cups 1-inch-wide cauliflower florets
1 1/4 cups Light-and-Crisp Whole-Wheat Bread Crumbs (recipe below)
3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons olive oil
3 cups cold low-fat (1%) milk
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (5 ounces)
1/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (1 ounce)
2 teaspoons mustard powder
3/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
6 ounces (1 1/2 cups) whole-grain elbow macaroni, cooked for 3 minutes less than the package directions (about 3 cups cooked)
Nonstick cooking spray
4 slices whole wheat sandwich bread (about 1 ounce each)

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
  • Place the cauliflower into a steamer basket fitted over the pot, cover, and steam until just tender, about 5 minutes. Finely chop the steamed cauliflower.
  • In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan, and oil.
  • In a large saucepan, whisk together the milk and flour until the flour is dissolved. Whisking constantly, bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to medium low and simmer until the mixture thickens slightly, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the cheddar, Gruyere, mustard powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is smooth, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the chopped cauliflower and macaroni and stir until well coated.
  • Spray an ovenproof 10-inch high-sided skillet with cooking spray. Pour the mixture into the prepared skillet. Sprinkle with the bread crumb mixture, place on a baking sheet, and bake until the top is browned and the cheese is bubbly, 35 to 40 minutes.
  • Homemade bread crumbs are one of those "chef's secrets" ¿ important but often overlooked detail that can make a dish. These easy-to-make crumbs are flaky, mild, and versatile¿they don't have that heavy whole-wheat taste and dense texture that most store-bought brands have. Since bread crumbs are a comfort-food cornerstone used in everything from cutlet coatings to casserole toppings, it's key to have the best.
  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  • Place the bread in a food processor and process until fine crumbs form, 25 to 30 seconds. Place the crumbs on a baking sheet, spreading them evenly. Bake until golden brown, about 12 minutes. Store the bread crumbs in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Helen Abayneh
[email protected]

This is my go-to recipe for mac and cheese. It's always a hit with my friends and family.


Zani Gaming
[email protected]

I've made this recipe several times and it's always a success. It's a great way to use up leftover pasta.


Hagi Jawara
[email protected]

This is a great recipe for a family meal. It's affordable, easy to make, and everyone loves it.


Ali Farhan
[email protected]

I love that this recipe can be made with different types of cheese. I've tried it with cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, and they all work great.


Ashil Ashil
[email protected]

This dish is perfect for a potluck or party. It's easy to make ahead of time and it always disappears quickly.


Linda Daniella
[email protected]

I would definitely recommend this recipe to anyone who loves mac and cheese.


Nqubeko Hlatshwayo
[email protected]

This is the best skillet mac and cheese I've ever had. The cheese sauce is so creamy and flavorful.


ultimate spyninja
[email protected]

I'm not a fan of mac and cheese, but I tried this recipe and I was pleasantly surprised. It was really good!


Benbecky Rodriguez
[email protected]

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal. It's quick and easy to make, and it's always a crowd-pleaser.


Thandi Moruka
[email protected]

I added some cooked bacon to the mac and cheese and it was amazing! It gave the dish a smoky flavor that I really enjoyed.


Moazam Adrees
[email protected]

The cheese sauce was a little too thick for my liking. I would add more milk next time.


Md Leon
[email protected]

I love how easy this recipe is. I was able to make it in under 30 minutes. It's definitely a keeper!


Subhan Mirza
[email protected]

This skillet mac and cheese was a hit with my family! It was easy to make and so delicious. The pasta was cooked perfectly and the cheese sauce was creamy and flavorful.