Mac and Cheese Bar

Total Time Prep/Total Time: 35 min.
Yield 10 servings
Test Kitchen Approved
A mac and cheese bar creates a delicious, interactive experience where guests can load their cheesy bowls with gourmet toppings, making it perfect for both picky and adventurous eaters.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1-1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • TOPPING OPTIONS:
  • Sliced grilled chicken breast, sliced grilled steak, cooked lobster, cooked & crumbled bacon
  • Steamed broccoli florets, cooked asparagus tips, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, sliced green onions, dill sprigs, chopped parsley
  • Shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, crumbled blue cheese
  • Hot sauce, ranch, buffalo sauce, truffle butter
  • Toasted bread crumbs

Directions

  1. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain; set aside.
  2. Heat butter in a large stock pot to medium heat. Stir in flour; bring to a simmer until lightly browned, whisking constantly. Slowly whisk in milk and bring to a simmer; cook until thickened, 3-4 minutes, whisking occasionally. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, mustard, nutmeg and shredded cheeses until cheese has melted. Stir in cooked macaroni. Transfer to a slow cooker; keep warm.
  3. Serve with bowls filled with topping options.

Nutrition Facts

1 serving: 375 calories, 18g fat (10g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 611mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 17g protein.

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