Guinness & Irish Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Guinness and Irish Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Guinness and Irish Cheddar Mac & Cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- salt/pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2/3 cup guinness or other stout
- 1 1/2 cups 2% milk
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 2 ounces cream cheese cut into pieces
- 3 1/2 cups grated irish cheddar divided (i used kerrygold aged cheddar)
- 2 teaspoons finely minced garlic
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley
- Carbohydrate 78.1351645278879 g
- Cholesterol 40.7563876558226 mg
- Fat 15.9034594992223 g
- Fiber 3.47451908055492 g
- Protein 14.5015528740542 g
- Saturated Fat 8.83160259142478 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (214g)
- Sodium 475.262969060824 mg
- Sugar 74.660645447333 g
- Trans Fat 1.60403023964209 g
- Calories 515 calories
Step-by-step
- In a medium skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter.
- Add garlic and breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until the breadcrumbs are lightly toasted and the mixture is fragrant.
- Remove from the heat, add salt and pepper to taste and minced parsley.
- Set aside.
- Boil elbow macaroni in well salted water and cook until just al dente.
- Before draining the pasta, reserve a cup of the pasta water and set it aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sprinkle in flour.
- Whisk together for a minute.
- While whisking, pour in Guinness, milk, half and half, salt, pepper, and mustard.
- Bring to a simmer and cook, whisking frequently, until it thickens slightly (several minutes).
- Add cream cheese and 2 1/2 cups grated cheddar and stir/whisk until completely smooth.
- Add drained, cooked pasta and stir to combine.
- Add remaining 1 cup grated cheddar and stir until melted.
- Transfer to a serving bowl or individual bowls and sprinkle the top with the reserved toasted breadcrumbs.
- Serve immediately.
My Comfort Food Escape: Guinness & Irish Cheddar Mac & Cheese
As a busy working mom, finding time for anything beyond the daily grind can be a challenge. But there are those moments, those precious pockets of time, that I cherish – the moments spent in the kitchen, creating something delicious, something comforting, something that nourishes both body and soul. This Guinness & Irish Cheddar Mac & Cheese recipe is one of those moments. It’s a dish that transports me, even if just for a few minutes, to a cozy pub in Ireland, the aroma of rich stout and melted cheese filling the air. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.
The creamy, decadent texture of the cheese sauce, infused with the subtle bitterness of the Guinness, is a revelation. It’s a delightful contrast, a perfect balance of flavors that dance on your tongue. The sharp, nutty notes of the Irish cheddar add another layer of complexity, elevating this classic dish to something truly special. The crunchy panko breadcrumbs add a delightful textural contrast, offering a satisfying crunch against the smooth, creamy cheese.
This recipe isn't just about the delicious taste; it’s about the process. The act of carefully melting the butter, whisking the flour into the Guinness, and watching the cheese sauce slowly thicken is incredibly therapeutic. It’s a mindful activity that allows me to disconnect from the stresses of the day and focus on something positive. The aroma filling my kitchen transforms the mundane task of cooking into a moment of self-care.
The beauty of this dish is its versatility. It's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a comforting meal after a long day, or a special occasion gathering. I’ve served it to friends, family, and even fussy eaters, and it always receives rave reviews. The leftovers, if there are any, are equally delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal-prep option too. It's a dish that brings people together, fostering conversation and laughter around the table.
Beyond the immediate satisfaction of a delicious meal, this recipe represents something more profound. It’s a reminder to take time for myself, to indulge in the simple pleasures of life, and to create moments of joy and comfort amidst the chaos of daily life. The richness of the Guinness, the sharpness of the cheddar, the satisfying creaminess of the sauce – they are all small luxuries that add up to a big, happy feeling.
More than just a recipe, this is a testament to the power of food to nourish not just the body, but also the soul. It's a reminder that even amidst the busiest of schedules, there’s always time for a little comfort, a little indulgence, and a whole lot of deliciousness. This Guinness and Irish Cheddar Mac & Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a sanctuary.
So, the next time you find yourself craving comfort and connection, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Let the aroma of Guinness and melting cheese fill your kitchen, creating a moment of warmth and contentment. You deserve it.
