How do dill pickles influence the flavor?

Dill pickles add a tangy brightness and subtle acidity, balancing the creamy cheese and enriching the overall taste profile.

Can I bake this dish with a topping?

Yes, mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and baking it on top creates a crunchy, golden finish that contrasts nicely with the creamy base.

Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses are melted together to form a rich, smooth, and flavorful sauce.

Fresh dill adds an aromatic, herbaceous hint that complements the pickles, enhancing the dish’s bright and zesty character.

Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced pickled jalapeños introduces a mild heat that balances the tangy and creamy elements.

A creamy, tangy macaroni and cheese infused with the bright flavor of dill pickles—an irresistible comfort food with a zesty kick.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite for its unique, bright flavor and easy preparation.

Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter 2 tbsp all-purpose flour 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk 170 g (6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese shredded 85 g (3 oz) Monterey Jack cheese shredded 2 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp garlic powder Salt and black pepper to taste
Pickle Twist: 120 g (about 1 cup) dill pickles finely chopped 60 ml (1/4 cup) dill pickle juice 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped plus extra for garnish
Topping (optional): 60 g (1/2 cup) panko breadcrumbs 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted

Step 1:: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) if baking with topping.
Step 2:: Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3:: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 4:: Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened (about 3 4 minutes).
Step 5:: Lower heat and add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
Step 6:: Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pickle juice, chopped pickles, and fresh dill. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7:: Fold in the cooked macaroni until fully coated with the sauce.
Step 8:: Optional For a crunchy topping, mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese in a baking dish. Bake for 10 12 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9:: Garnish with extra chopped dill and serve immediately.

Making this mac and cheese always brings back warm memories of family dinners and happy gatherings.

Large pot saucepan whisk baking dish optional for topping cheese grater

Contains dairy (milk cheese butter) and gluten (pasta flour breadcrumbs).

Calories 520 Total Fat 27 g Carbohydrates 49 g Protein 21 g per serving

This pickle mac and cheese is a must-try for cheese lovers looking to brighten up a classic dish.

→ How do dill pickles influence the flavor?: Dill pickles add a tangy brightness and subtle acidity, balancing the creamy cheese and enriching the overall taste profile.
→ Can I bake this dish with a topping?: Yes, mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and baking it on top creates a crunchy, golden finish that contrasts nicely with the creamy base.
→ What cheeses are used in the sauce?: Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses are melted together to form a rich, smooth, and flavorful sauce.
→ Is fresh dill necessary for the flavor?: Fresh dill adds an aromatic, herbaceous hint that complements the pickles, enhancing the dish’s bright and zesty character.
→ How can I add spice to this dish?: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced pickled jalapeños introduces a mild heat that balances the tangy and creamy elements.