We’ve all craved that gooey cheesy goodness on a chilly evening and our San Giorgio Mac and Cheese Recipe delivers just that. As pasta enthusiasts we’ve tweaked the classic comfort dish using San Giorgio’s premium pasta for a creamy twist that’s both hearty and homemade.
This easy recipe draws from American favorites while highlighting quality ingredients that make every bite memorable. We’re confident it’ll become your go-to for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible San Giorgio Mac and Cheese, we start by selecting high-quality ingredients that deliver creamy, cheesy perfection. We’ll order them as they appear in the preparation process, with notes on any necessary prep for optimal results.
Pasta
- San Giorgio elbow macaroni (12 ounces, uncooked) – This premium pasta forms the hearty base; cook it al dente for the best texture.
Cheese and Dairy
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, sharp variety preferred) – Use freshly shredded for a smoother melt and richer flavor.
- Milk (2 cups, whole for creaminess) – We recommend warming it slightly before adding to ensure even blending.
- Butter (4 tablespoons, unsalted) – Melt this first to create a velvety roux; opt for high-fat content for a luxurious finish.
Sauce Components
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons) – This thickens the sauce; sift it if clumpy for a lump-free result.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) – Adds a subtle, savory depth; freshly ground if possible for enhanced aroma.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste, about 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper) – Season generously to balance the cheese’s richness.
Optional Add-Ins
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon) – Stir in for a tangy kick that elevates the classic comfort without overpowering it.
- Panko breadcrumbs (½ cup, for topping) – Toast these lightly if you want a crispy crust on your baked version.
This selection ensures our San Giorgio Mac and Cheese remains a go-to favorite, packed with flavors that make every bite memorable.
Equipment Needed
To bring our San Giorgio Mac and Cheese recipe to life with ease and precision, we rely on a few key pieces of equipment. These tools streamline the process from boiling pasta to creating a velvety cheese sauce, ensuring every step results in the gooey, comforting dish we love.
Here’s a curated list of the essential equipment, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Large pot: For boiling the San Giorgio elbow macaroni to al dente perfection, allowing ample space to prevent overflow and ensure even cooking.
- Colander: To drain the cooked pasta quickly and efficiently, minimizing excess water that could dilute our creamy sauce.
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for preparing the cheese sauce base, where we melt butter and whisk in flour for a smooth, lump-free roux.
- Whisk: A must-have for blending ingredients like flour, milk, and cheese seamlessly, helping us achieve that irresistible, silky texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for portioning out items such as 2 cups of shredded cheddar and 4 tablespoons of butter, guaranteeing the right balance of flavors.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring the sauce and mixing in add-ins like Dijon mustard, preventing sticking and ensuring even distribution.
- Baking dish (9×13 inches): If opting for a baked version with panko breadcrumbs, this holds our mac and cheese for that golden, crispy top.
- Oven thermometer: For those baking, it confirms the oven reaches the precise temperature needed—typically 350°F—to avoid overcooking and maintain cheesy goodness.
By preparing these items ahead, we set ourselves up for a seamless cooking experience that highlights the premium quality of San Giorgio pasta. This transitions smoothly into the next steps of our recipe.
Instructions
Let’s guide you through preparing our irresistible San Giorgio Mac and Cheese, using premium San Giorgio elbow macaroni for that perfect al dente texture and creamy cheese sauce.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, gather and measure all ingredients to ensure a smooth process. Begin by measuring 12 ounces of San Giorgio elbow macaroni and set it aside in a bowl. Grate or measure out 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese for melting, and have ready 2 cups of whole milk, 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. If adding extras, whisk in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist and prepare ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping. This step sets the stage for our flavorful, hearty dish that highlights the quality of San Giorgio pasta.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Add the 12 ounces of San Giorgio elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, typically 7-9 minutes, until al dente—firm to the bite yet tender. Drain the pasta using a colander, then rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process, preserving its perfect texture for our creamy San Giorgio Mac and Cheese.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it bubbles slightly, releasing a rich, nutty aroma. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a velvety sauce, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and optional 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, melting everything until you achieve a gooey, golden sauce that coats the back of a spoon—imagine the indulgent, cheesy bliss awaiting in our San Giorgio Mac and Cheese.
Assemble the Dish
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained San Giorgio elbow macaroni with the warm cheese sauce, tossing gently with a wooden spoon until every piece is evenly coated in the creamy mixture. For added crunch, sprinkle ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs over the top if desired. Transfer the assembled mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, ensuring an even layer that promises a comforting, hearty bite in every scoop of our signature San Giorgio Mac and Cheese.
Bake the Mac and Cheese
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the baking dish on the middle rack. Bake the assembled dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the top turns golden and bubbly, creating a crispy contrast to the soft, cheesy interior. Use an oven thermometer to confirm the temperature for even baking, resulting in a warm, aromatic San Giorgio Mac and Cheese that’s perfect for family gatherings.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our San Giorgio Mac and Cheese even more convenient for busy weeknights or gatherings, we recommend preparing it in advance while preserving its gooey, cheesy goodness. This approach allows the flavors to meld, making the dish taste even better when you’re ready to serve. By following these steps, you’ll streamline the process without compromising the premium quality of San Giorgio pasta.
Preparing Components Ahead
We start by prepping the key elements separately to maintain texture and freshness:
- Cook the pasta early: Boil the San Giorgio elbow macaroni to just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions), then drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. This prevents it from becoming mushy when reheated.
- Make the cheese sauce in advance: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, then gradually add whole milk, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Once smooth and thickened, cool the sauce completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Assemble the dish: Combine the cooked pasta with the cooled cheese sauce in a baking dish. If adding optional elements like Dijon mustard or panko breadcrumbs, mix them in now for enhanced flavor.
Storage Guidelines
For optimal results, store your assembled San Giorgio Mac and Cheese properly to lock in its creamy, hearty appeal:
- Refrigeration: Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. We suggest labeling it with the date to track freshness.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place the unbaked dish in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, ensuring the dish remains a go-to favorite for future meals.
To present this information clearly, here’s a quick reference table for storage durations and tips:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Keep covered to prevent drying; reheat in oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating; stir gently to restore creaminess. |
Reheating for the Best Experience
- From the fridge: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the cover, sprinkle on panko breadcrumbs if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through and the top is crispy.
- From the freezer: First, thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Then follow the oven reheating steps, adding 5-10 minutes to the bake time to ensure even warming.
- In our experience, stirring the dish halfway through reheating helps distribute the cheese sauce evenly, enhancing that comforting, memorable bite San Giorgio pasta is known for. Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this San Giorgio Mac and Cheese recipe to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. It’s a simple yet elevated take on a classic that uses premium ingredients for unbeatable results.
We’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Give it a try and savor the creamy delight we’ve outlined.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is San Giorgio Mac and Cheese?
San Giorgio Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish made with premium San Giorgio elbow macaroni. It’s a hearty twist on the classic recipe, perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings, using high-quality ingredients like sharp cheddar and whole milk for a gooey, flavorful result.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You’ll need 12 ounces of San Giorgio elbow macaroni, 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, 2 cups whole milk, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Optional add-ins include Dijon mustard for tang or panko breadcrumbs for crunch, ensuring a rich, memorable dish.
How do I prepare San Giorgio Mac and Cheese?
Start by cooking 12 ounces of San Giorgio macaroni to al dente. Make a cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, milk, and cheddar until smooth. Combine with pasta, then bake if desired at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. This easy process yields a creamy, comforting meal in under an hour.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the pasta and cheese sauce separately, then combine and store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. This allows flavors to meld, making it ideal for busy schedules. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, checking for a safe internal temperature.
What equipment is required to make this dish?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, a medium saucepan for the sauce, a whisk for blending, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a baking dish for the optional baked version. An oven thermometer helps ensure proper baking temperature for best results.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. Always check that it reaches 165°F internally for safety.