Guinness Mac and Cheese
This isn’t just mac and cheese — it’s an experience that pairs beautifully with the warmth of a cozy evening or the festive energy of St Patrick's day Mac and Cheese gatherings.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking dish (9x13-inch)
- Mixing Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven Mitts
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz elbow macaroni about 3 cups
- 1 tsp salt for boiling water
For the Cheese Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Guinness stout
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until just al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Pro tip: Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water—it can help loosen the sauce later if it’s too thick.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Once melted, whisk in the flour to make a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden.
- Pro tip: Whisk continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a silky base.
- Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Slowly pour in the Guinness, stirring to combine. The sauce should be smooth and glossy.
- Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese, one handful at a time.
- Add mustard powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the mac and cheese in the baking dish.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the mac and cheese for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Pro tip: Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Notes
Nutritional Value (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 5 g