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Irresistible Maple Bourbon Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crunch

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A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese elevated with the sweet notes of maple syrup, smoky bourbon, and a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for comfort food or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to do it slowly to avoid lumps. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and add the grated cheddar and Gruyère cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Stir in the maple syrup, bourbon, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, folding gently until every piece is coated in creamy goodness.
  7. In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil. Toss until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
  8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
  9. Let the mac and cheese cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy while it’s warm and gooey!

Notes

[‘Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the oven.’, ‘Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.’, ‘Toast the breadcrumbs in a dry pan for extra crunch.’, ‘Taste and adjust the sweetness of the maple syrup to your preference.’, ‘You can substitute Gruyère with smoked gouda for added flavor.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: maple bourbon mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, crunchy topping, gourmet mac and cheese

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/irresistible-maple-bourbon-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crunch/