We’ve always been fans of the Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese Recipe, a comforting twist on the classic American favorite that originated in a quaint eatery. It’s got that irresistible blend of gooey cheese and tender pasta, perfect for cozy family nights or potluck stars.
Ingredients
For our Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese recipe, we select high-quality ingredients that blend to create a creamy, indulgent dish with gooey cheese and tender pasta.
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (uncooked; we recommend a sturdy pasta that holds sauce well)
- 2 quarts water (for boiling pasta; add 1 tablespoon salt to enhance flavor)
Cheese and Dairy
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded; opt for freshly grated for better melt)
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese (shredded; this adds a nutty depth to our Clarkston Union variation)
- 1 cup whole milk (warmed; use full-fat for creamier results)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (room temperature; stir in for extra richness)
Roux and Seasonings
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted; we use this as the base for the roux)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (sifted; ensures a smooth thickening agent)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for a subtle, aromatic kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked variety preferred; adds a hint of smokiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (enhances cheese flavor without overpowering)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste; we suggest starting with 1 teaspoon salt and adjusting)
Toppings and Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko style; toasted for a crispy topping)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped; for a fresh, vibrant garnish)
This list ensures our Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese delivers comforting, family-friendly flavors with precise measurements for consistent results.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients, let’s guide you through creating our irresistible Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese with simple, step-by-step directions. We promise this process will yield a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for any gathering.
Prep
First, we bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, cooking it for about 7-8 minutes until al dente for that perfect tender bite. While the pasta cooks, we grate 2 cups of sharp cheddar and 1 cup of Gruyère cheese to ensure they melt smoothly into our sauce, releasing an irresistible aroma of nutty richness. Next, we measure out 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, warming them slightly in a microwave for 30 seconds to enhance their silky texture when combined. In a separate bowl, we mix 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, paprika, and ground mustard to create a flavorful seasoning blend that will elevate the dish’s depth. Finally, we toast 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp, infusing them with a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Cook
Once the pasta is drained and set aside, we melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in 1/4 cup of flour to form a smooth roux that bubbles gently for 1-2 minutes, building a base with a rich, toasty scent. Gradually, we pour in the warmed whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to a velvety consistency that coats the back of a spoon, which takes about 5 minutes and creates that signature gooey cheese pull we all crave. Now, we reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses along with our seasoning blend, melting them until the sauce becomes luxuriously smooth and glossy, with strings of cheese that promise an indulgent, comforting experience in every bite.
Assemble
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, we combine the cooked elbow macaroni with the hot cheese sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly for a uniform, creamy distribution. We spread the mixture into an even layer, then sprinkle the toasted panko breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy contrast that adds satisfying texture. For a final flourish, we garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley to bring a burst of vibrant green color and herbaceous freshness. Bake the assembled dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling, filling your kitchen with an enticing, cheesy aroma that signals it’s ready to serve.
Required Tools and Equipment
To bring our Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese to life with the ingredients and steps we’ve outlined, we rely on a selection of essential tools and equipment. These items ensure smooth preparation, from boiling pasta to baking the final dish. Below, we break down the key tools you’ll need, organized by their role in the process for easy reference.
Basic Cooking Essentials
- Large pot: We use this to boil the elbow macaroni to al dente perfection, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking.
- Colander: Essential for draining the cooked pasta quickly, allowing excess water to escape without losing any noodles.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe’s success; we recommend a set for liquids like whole milk and dry ingredients like flour.
Preparation and Mixing Tools
- Cheese grater: This tool helps us grate sharp cheddar and Gruyère smoothly, promoting even melting and a creamy texture in the sauce.
- Whisk: We employ a sturdy whisk to blend the roux with butter and flour, creating a lump-free base that thickens the cheese sauce flawlessly.
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for warming the whole milk and heavy cream, as well as building the seasoned roux to enhance flavors like garlic powder and paprika.
Baking and Finishing Equipment
- Baking dish (9×13 inch): We assemble the pasta and cheese mixture in this for even baking, resulting in a golden, bubbling top with toasted panko breadcrumbs.
- Oven: A standard oven set to 350°F bakes our dish to perfection, melding the cheeses into a gooey, indulgent delight.
- Mixing bowls (at least two sizes): These allow us to combine ingredients efficiently—one for the cheese sauce and another for tossing the pasta.
With these tools on hand, we guarantee a seamless experience that delivers the comforting, family-friendly results of our Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese every time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese recipe is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing us to streamline busy days while preserving that creamy, cheesy goodness. We often prepare this dish in advance for family gatherings or potlucks, ensuring it reheats to golden perfection without losing its indulgent texture and flavor.
Preparing in Advance
To get ahead, we recommend assembling the mac and cheese up to the baking step. Follow the main recipe instructions up to combining the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and transferring the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. At this point, do not add the toasted panko breadcrumbs and fresh parsley topping yet to maintain their crispness.
- Cool and Cover: Let the assembled dish cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This prevents condensation that could make the topping soggy later. Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate or Freeze: For short-term storage, refrigerate the covered dish for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months—freezing helps lock in the rich, melty cheese flavors for future meals.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage is key to keeping our Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese as comforting and flavorful as when freshly made. Below, we outline the options in a simple table for quick reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container to retain moisture and prevent drying out. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Use freezer-safe dishes; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for even results. |
When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat as follows:
- From Refrigerated: Remove the covering, add the toasted panko breadcrumbs and fresh parsley, then bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden. This restores the crispy topping and warms the creamy interior evenly.
- From Frozen: Thaw the dish in the refrigerator for 24 hours first. Once thawed, proceed with adding toppings and baking as above, adding 5-10 minutes to the bake time to ensure it’s heated through.
By following these steps, we ensure our Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese remains a hassle-free, crowd-pleasing favorite every time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing the Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese recipe as it’s become a go-to for us and our readers. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a simple way to create memorable moments with family and friends.
By following our tips, you’ll nail that creamy, cheesy perfection every time. Give it a try and see how it elevates your gatherings—we’re confident it’ll be a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese Recipe?
The Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese is a comforting twist on the classic dish, featuring gooey cheese and tender pasta. It’s perfect for family gatherings, using high-quality ingredients like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, whole milk, and heavy cream for a creamy texture. Seasonings like garlic powder and paprika add flavor, topped with toasted panko breadcrumbs for crunch.
What ingredients are needed for Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese?
Key ingredients include elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, whole milk, heavy cream, butter, flour, garlic powder, paprika, and ground mustard. Fresh parsley and toasted panko breadcrumbs serve as toppings. These high-quality items ensure a rich, indulgent dish that’s easy to prepare for any occasion.
How do you prepare Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese step by step?
Start by cooking elbow macaroni until al dente. Make a roux with butter and flour, then add warmed milk, cream, and seasonings. Mix in grated cheeses for a smooth sauce, combine with pasta, and transfer to a baking dish. Top with toasted panko and parsley, then bake at 350°F until golden and bubbly—ready in about 45 minutes.
What tools and equipment are required for this recipe?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, measuring cups and spoons, a cheese grater, a whisk for the roux, a medium saucepan for warming milk, and a 9×13 inch baking dish. An oven set to 350°F is essential. These basics ensure a smooth cooking process for perfect results every time.
Can I make Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish up to the baking step, then cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. This keeps the creamy texture intact. When ready, bake from refrigerated state or thaw and reheat frozen portions, making it ideal for busy schedules or events.
How should I store and reheat Clarkston Union Mac N Cheese leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake refrigerated portions at 350°F until warmed through, or thaw frozen ones overnight and bake. This maintains the dish’s creamy consistency and flavor for enjoyable meals later.