Texas Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 tbspextra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cvery finely diced shallot
- 2 clovesgarlic
minced
- 2 tbspbutter
- 1 ½ tspkosher salt
- ½ tspfreshly cracked black pepper
- 12 ozgluten-free elbow pasta
i like jovial brand brown rice pasta
- 2 cmilk
i use grass-fed whole milk
- 2 cwater
- 2 ½ csharp cheddar cheese
i like tillamook brand
- ¼ clow-fat sour cream
- 14 ounce] can diced green chiles
undrained
- ¼ tspground nutmeg
- ½ tsppaprika
- ¼ cgluten-free panko bread crumbs
i like aleia brand
- 1 tbspfinely chopped cilantro leaves
optional for serving
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (convection mode is best if you have it).
- 2
Heat a large pot over medium heat with 1 tbsp of the olive oil. Add the shallot and garlic and cook, stirring, until just tender, about 2 minutes.
- 3
Add the butter, salt, and pepper and melt.
- 4
Add the uncooked pasta, the milk, and the water and bring slowly to a boil (I keep mine over medium heat). Cook, stirring often, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed, about 12 minutes.
- 5
Remove from heat and stir in only 2 cups of the shredded cheese, sour cream, the green chiles, nutmeg, and the paprika. Taste and add more salt if desired.
- 6
Transfer the mac and cheese to a casserole dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
- 7
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss until well combined, then sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
- 8
Transfer to oven and bake (uncovered) until the cheese and panko are golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes, being careful not to burn.
- 9
Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro (if using), serve and enjoy!
Texas Baked Mac and Cheese
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 16 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving the ultimate comfort food with a little kick? This Texas Baked Mac and Cheese delivers a rich, creamy experience that's anything but ordinary, bringing a taste of the South straight to your table.
Why This Mac and Cheese Works
What truly sets this Texas-style mac and cheese apart is the thoughtful combination of flavors and textures. The base gets an aromatic start with finely diced shallots and minced garlic, building a deeper foundation than typical versions. Sharp cheddar cheese, like Tillamook, provides that essential tangy backbone, beautifully complemented by the subtle heat of undrained diced green chiles and a hint of warmth from paprika and nutmeg. Plus, it thoughtfully incorporates gluten-free pasta and panko for those seeking an inclusive, delicious option.
What to Expect
Prepare for a hearty, deeply flavorful mac and cheese that's both comforting and exciting. You'll experience a luscious, cheesy sauce enveloping tender gluten-free elbow pasta, all crowned with a satisfyingly crisp panko topping. The green chiles introduce a mild, savory warmth without overwhelming the creamy cheddar, offering a sophisticated twist on a classic. It’s a dish that feels homemade and special, perfect for weeknights or gatherings, proving that mac and cheese can be both simple to prepare and incredibly rich in taste.
Customization & Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your pantry and preferences. While sharp cheddar is key, feel free to experiment with a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack for extra melty goodness. If you don't have shallots, a small amount of yellow onion can work in a pinch. For an even more vibrant flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You can also omit the cilantro if it's not to your taste, or add extra for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
Serving & Context
This Texas Baked Mac and Cheese is an ideal centerpiece for a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish. Serve it alongside barbecue, roasted chicken, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.