Guinness Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re searching for a hearty, indulgent comfort food that packs a punch of flavor, you’re going to want to try this Guinness Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, with rich Irish cheddar and a splash of Guinness stout bringing a grown-up twist to classic mac and cheese. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become your go-to when you want creamy, cheesy goodness with a bit of a bold, distinctive edge.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work in harmony to create the luscious, cheesy sauce with a little edge from the Guinness. Don’t skip the dijon mustard – it might surprise you just how much it lifts the flavors! And for cheese, Irish cheddar is the star here, but I’ll share tips for substitutions if you want.

• Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape for mac and cheese – it holds the sauce perfectly in every bite.
• Butter: Essential for the roux and for toasting breadcrumbs; unsalted is best so you can control salt levels.
• Flour: Used to make the roux that gives you a smooth, velvety cheese sauce.
• Guinness or other stout: Adds rich malty flavor and a touch of bitterness that pairs beautifully with cheddar.
• Milk: I recommend 2% for creaminess without being too heavy.
• Half and half: Boosts richness without overpowering the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings, but important to balance flavors.
• Dijon mustard: A small amount brightens and deepens the cheese sauce flavor.
• Cream cheese: Adds an extra creamy layer and smooth texture.
• Shredded cheddar (preferably Irish cheddar): Sharp and flavorful cheese, packed with character.
• Garlic: Minced finely to infuse the breadcrumb topping with savory notes.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Light and crunchy, they add the perfect golden topping.
• Fresh parsley: A little fresh herb to cut through richness and add color.

Variations

I’m always experimenting with ways to make this Guinness Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe fit different occasions or preferences. Feel free to tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs – it’s pretty forgiving and endlessly delicious.

• Spicy kick: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for a warm, smoky heat that my family loves.
• Different cheese blend: You can swap part of the cheddar with gruyere or fontina for an even creamier melt and slightly nutty flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and swap the flour for a gluten-free option like rice flour or a mix designed for thickening sauces.
• Herb variations: Fresh thyme or chives also complement the flavors well if you want to switch up the parsley.

How to Make Guinness Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by boiling your elbow macaroni until it’s just al dente (usually about 7 minutes). You want it slightly firm to the bite because it will cook a bit more once you mix it with the sauce and bake. Drain well and give it a quick rinse with hot water to stop the cooking. This little trick keeps your pasta from sticking, especially important when you’re making mac and cheese.

Step 2: Make the Guinness Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Here’s where the magic happens. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly – this removes the raw flour taste and builds that silky base. Then, slowly whisk in your Guinness stout, 1½ cups of 2% milk, and ½ cup half and half. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon dijon mustard to brighten things up. Off the heat, stir in cream cheese pieces until smooth, then fold in 3 cups of shredded cheddar. This step is where you’ll want to taste and adjust – sometimes a little more mustard or salt makes all the difference.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour your drained macaroni back into the pot or a large mixing bowl and gently fold in the cheese sauce until every piece is coated in that gorgeous, creamy mixture. This is when your kitchen is going to smell incredible. Don’t rush – take your time to make sure it’s evenly mixed.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Panko Topping

In a small skillet, melt 1½ tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add 2 teaspoons of finely minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute — be careful not to burn it! Then stir in ½ cup panko breadcrumbs, tossing them so they soak up the buttery garlic flavor. You’re looking for golden, lightly toasted crumbs that add crunch and a burst of savory garlic.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese into a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar evenly over the top, followed by the garlic panko crumbs. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. If you like a particularly crisp crust, pop it under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

How to Serve Guinness Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish this dish with a sprinkle of freshly minced parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If I’m feeling fancy, a few extra slivers of sharp cheddar on top right after baking look beautiful melting slightly. Sometimes, a light drizzle of truffle oil takes it up a notch for special meals.

Side Dishes

Because this mac and cheese is already rich and flavorful, I pair it with simple, refreshing sides like a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans. For a heartier meal, roast some Brussels sprouts or serve with a juicy pork chop. The bold flavors stand up well to meat and roasted veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve made this in individual ramekins for a fun dinner party presentation, adding a sprig of thyme on top. It’s also great served family-style in a rustic cast iron skillet that keeps it warm and invites everyone to dig in. For St. Patrick’s Day gatherings, I like to pop Irish soda bread alongside and maybe even add a few green herbs for festive flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, though the topping loses its crunch, so I recommend reheating with a quick broil to bring back the texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this mac and cheese successfully by packing it in freezer-safe containers before baking. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. Freezing can slightly alter the texture, but it still tastes delicious and comforting.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the mac and cheese loosely with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Then I remove the foil and broil for 2-3 minutes for that toasty topping again – it makes leftovers feel fresh and just-like-new.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Guinness Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe turns out every time: creamy, comforting, with that special hint of stout and sharp cheddar that makes it so memorable. When I first tried it, I was blown away by how easy it was to elevate a classic comfort dish with just a few thoughtful ingredients. My family goes crazy for it, and I bet yours will too. Give it a try on your next cozy night in – I promise it’ll be a recipe you keep coming back to again and again.

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