We’ve all fallen for Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese recipe that’s taken the internet by storm with its gooey cheese pull and bold flavors. Originating from her celebrity kitchen it’s a twist on a classic comfort food that brings warmth to any gathering.
As food lovers we appreciate how this dish combines simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a cozy night in we’ll guide you through making it your own.
Ingredients
As we dive into our adaptation of Chrissy Teigen’s Mac and Cheese recipe, we focus on a selection of simple yet flavorful ingredients that deliver that signature gooey texture and bold taste. We’ve organized them in the order they’re typically used, with prep notes for clarity.
- Elbow macaroni (1 pound): We start with this as the base—cook it al dente for the perfect chew.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Melt this first for the roux—ensure it’s at room temperature for even blending.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Add this next to the melted butter to create a smooth roux—sift it beforehand to avoid lumps.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Pour this in gradually after the roux to achieve a creamy consistency—warm it slightly for better incorporation.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Follow with this for extra richness—use full-fat for the most indulgent results.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded): Stir in after the milk mixture thickens—freshly grate it to prevent clumping.
- Gruyère cheese (1 cup, shredded): We layer this with cheddar for depth—opt for aged Gruyère to enhance the bold flavors.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Sprinkle this on top for a nutty finish—grate it finely for even melting.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Add a kick with this—whisk it in for tang without overpowering the cheese.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste): Season throughout—we recommend adjusting based on cheese saltiness.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground): Freshly grind this for aroma and heat.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, optional): If topping, toast these lightly for a crispy contrast.
Equipment Needed
To bring Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese recipe to life with its signature gooey cheese and bold flavors, we rely on the right tools to handle our ingredients efficiently and achieve that perfect creamy texture. Building on the ingredients we outlined earlier, here’s a curated list of essential equipment, organized by the sequence of use in the preparation process. We prioritize items that ensure smooth cooking and baking for optimal results.
- Large Stock Pot: We start with a large stock pot (at least 8 quarts) for boiling the elbow macaroni. This ensures even cooking and prevents overflow, helping us achieve al dente pasta that’s the base of our indulgent dish.
- Colander: Next, a sturdy colander is crucial for draining the cooked pasta quickly. We recommend one with fine mesh to avoid losing any small pieces, keeping our mac and cheese preparation mess-free.
- Medium Saucepan: For creating the rich cheese sauce, we use a medium saucepan (about 3-4 quarts) to melt unsalted butter and whisk in flour. Its even heat distribution is key to avoiding lumps in the roux.
- Whisk: A reliable whisk helps us blend the flour, milk, and cream smoothly, incorporating air for a velvety sauce. We opt for a balloon whisk to tackle any potential clumps effectively.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons Set: Accuracy is vital, so we include a set of measuring cups and spoons for precise quantities of milk, cream, and spices. This set streamlines our workflow and guarantees the bold flavors shine through.
- Grater: To prepare the cheeses like sharp cheddar and Gruyère, we use a box grater or rotary grater. This tool allows us to shred fresh cheese quickly, enhancing meltability for that irresistible gooey consistency.
- Mixing Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Once the sauce is ready, a heat-resistant mixing spoon or silicone spatula helps us fold in the cheese and pasta without scratching cookware.
- Baking Dish: For the final bake, we select a 9×13-inch baking dish to assemble and bake the mac and cheese. This size ensures even browning of any optional panko topping, delivering a crispy contrast to the creamy interior.
- Oven: A standard oven preheated to 375°F is essential for baking. We emphasize using one with accurate temperature controls to lock in the dish’s comforting warmth and flavors.
| Equipment Item | Primary Use | Why It’s Essential for Our Recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Large Stock Pot | Boiling pasta | Prevents overflow and ensures even cooking for al dente texture |
| Colander | Draining pasta | Maintains ingredient integrity by removing excess water quickly |
| Medium Saucepan | Making cheese sauce | Provides even heating for a smooth, lump-free roux |
| Whisk | Stirring sauce | Achieves creamy consistency, enhancing the gooey cheese factor |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Measuring ingredients | Ensures precise measurements for bold, balanced flavors |
| Grater | Shredding cheese | Maximizes meltability for the recipe’s signature indulgence |
| Mixing Spoon or Spatula | Mixing components | Gently combines elements without damage for uniform results |
| Baking Dish | Baking the assembled dish | Promotes even browning and crispy topping if used |
| Oven | Final baking | Delivers the perfect bake for a warm, flavorful finish |
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment lined up, let’s walk through preparing Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese recipe step by step. We’ll ensure every detail helps you create a creamy, indulgent dish that’s packed with bold flavors and that signature gooey texture.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we gather and prep our ingredients to streamline the cooking process. Measure out 1 pound of elbow macaroni and set it aside. Grate 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup of Gruyère cheese, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese using a grater for easy melting—aim for fine shreds to achieve that smooth, velvety sauce. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small bowl, and in another bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to form a dry mix. Measure 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, ensuring they are at room temperature for even blending. If using optional panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping, prepare ½ cup and mix it with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Finally, have 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard ready to add its tangy kick, enhancing the cheeses’ richness.
Cook the Pasta
We start by boiling the pasta to al dente perfection, which provides the ideal base for our mac and cheese. Fill a large stock pot with 4 quarts of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat, then add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to season the water. Add the 1 pound of elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until it’s firm to the bite—undercooking slightly ensures it absorbs the cheese sauce without becoming mushy. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process, preserving its texture for that comforting bite.
Make the Cheese Sauce
Next, we craft the heart of Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese: a luscious, golden cheese sauce that coats every noodle. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then whisk in the flour-salt-pepper mixture to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden brown and smells nutty. Gradually pour in the 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency that clings to the whisk. Remove from heat and stir in the grated sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses along with 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, melting them until the sauce becomes irresistibly smooth and glossy—imagine the rich, tangy aroma filling your kitchen.
Combine and Bake
Finally, we bring everything together for a baked finish that delivers bubbly, golden perfection. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni with the warm cheese sauce, tossing gently with a silicone spatula until each piece is evenly coated in that decadent, cheesy blend. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly, and if desired, sprinkle the prepared panko breadcrumb topping over the surface for a crunchy contrast. Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling—pull it out when you see the cheese pulling away slightly, releasing an inviting, savory scent that promises pure comfort. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to maintain its gooey integrity.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our adaptation of Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing us to enjoy that irresistible gooey cheese and bold flavors without last-minute fuss. Whether we’re planning a gathering or a cozy weeknight meal, these steps ensure the dish retains its creamy texture and indulgent taste.
Preparing Components in Advance
To maximize convenience, we can prepare key elements of Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese ahead of time. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Cook the Pasta Early: Boil the elbow macaroni to al dente as outlined in our previous instructions, then immediately drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy. Toss it with a light coating of olive oil to avoid sticking, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Make the Cheese Sauce Ahead: Start by creating the roux with unsalted butter and all-purpose flour, then gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream until smooth. Add the grated sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses along with Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Once the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency that coats the back of a spoon, let it cool completely. Transfer it to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Pro tip: Reheat the sauce gently on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly to restore its silky, golden hue before combining with the pasta.
Assembling and Storing the Dish
Once the components are ready, we can assemble Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese for effortless baking later:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pre-cooked pasta with the reheated cheese sauce until every piece is enveloped in that rich, creamy blend.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, and if desired, sprinkle on the optional panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze the assembled dish for up to 1 month—just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container to preserve the dish’s signature indulgent flavors.
Reheating and Baking Tips
When it’s time to serve, we’ll revive the dish to its full glory with these simple guidelines:
- From the Refrigerator: Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure even baking. Preheat the oven to 375°F, uncover the dish, and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden, releasing an aroma of melted cheese that will make your mouth water.
- From the Freezer: Thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then follow the same baking instructions. If baking directly from frozen, add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time and cover with foil for the first half to prevent the top from over-browning while the center heats through to a piping-hot, comforting perfection.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we unlock the full potential of Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese, making it easier than ever to deliver a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed dish every time.
Conclusion
We’ve explored Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese as a go-to comfort classic that’s easy to adapt.
It’s brought joy to our kitchens with its creamy goodness and crowd-pleasing vibes.
Give it a try and see how it elevates your meals—we’re confident it’ll be a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese recipe about?
Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese is a popular twist on a classic comfort food, featuring gooey cheese and bold flavors from ingredients like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Dijon mustard. It’s easy to make with simple pantry staples and perfect for family dinners or parties, offering a creamy texture that elevates the dish while allowing for personalization.
What ingredients are needed for Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese?
Key ingredients include elbow macaroni, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, whole milk, heavy cream, sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan cheeses, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional panko breadcrumbs. Each is selected for its role in creating a gooey, flavorful dish, with preparation notes to ensure optimal texture and taste.
What equipment is required to prepare this recipe?
You’ll need a large stock pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, a medium saucepan for the cheese sauce, a whisk for mixing, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a grater for cheese, a mixing spoon or spatula, and a baking dish with an oven preheated to 375°F. These tools help achieve a creamy, bubbly result efficiently.
How do I make Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese?
Start by cooking elbow macaroni to al dente. Make a cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, then whisking in milk, cream, cheeses, mustard, salt, and pepper. Combine the pasta and sauce, transfer to a baking dish, add breadcrumbs if desired, and bake at 375°F until golden and bubbly. The process takes about 45-60 minutes total.
Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the pasta and cheese sauce in advance, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the dish just before baking to maintain creaminess. For reheating, bake from chilled at 375°F for 20-30 minutes until hot and bubbly, ensuring it stays indulgent for easy meal planning.
How can I personalize Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese recipe?
Customize by swapping cheeses like adding smoked Gouda for extra flavor, incorporating veggies such as spinach or broccoli, or adjusting spices with garlic powder or cayenne. You can also make it vegetarian or gluten-free with alternatives, allowing the recipe to adapt to your tastes while keeping its gooey appeal.
Is this recipe suitable for gatherings or events?
Absolutely, it’s ideal for gatherings due to its crowd-pleasing comfort and simple preparation. Make it ahead for ease, and it serves 6-8 people. The bold flavors and customizable options make it a hit for parties or cozy nights, ensuring everyone enjoys a warm, cheesy dish.