If there’s one dish that can wrap you in a warm embrace and satisfy your comfort food cravings, it’s mac and cheese. With its creamy goodness and cheesy allure, it’s hard to resist. But what if we added a twist that brings a bit of zest to this classic comfort food? Enter Pimento Mac & Cheese! This delightful recipe combines the richness of cheese with the unique flavor of pimentos, creating a dish that’s both familiar and exciting. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this Pimento Mac & Cheese is sure to become a favorite in your home.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Pimento Mac & Cheese stand out from all the rest? It’s the addition of tangy pimentos and a kick from crushed red pepper that elevate the traditional flavors to something truly special. The combination of extra sharp cheddar cheese with the subtle sweetness of pimentos creates a delightful contrast that is both creamy and flavorful. Whether you are a lifelong mac and cheese lover or just looking for a new dish to try, this recipe is bound to impress!

Ingredient List

To make this scrumptious Pimento Mac & Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

8-oz uncooked elbow macaroni
4 cups milk
1 tsp crushed red pepper
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
4 Tbsp butter
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups grated extra sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 (2.5-oz) jar pimentos (juice and all)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential kitchen gear:

Large pot: For boiling the macaroni.
Whisk: To ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy.
Large skillet: To make the cheese sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Baking dish: To transfer and bake your mac and cheese, if desired.

Cook Pimento Mac & Cheese Like This

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for the perfect Pimento Mac & Cheese:

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until smooth, creating a roux. Continue to whisk for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add the crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese

Add 1½ cups of the grated extra sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and creamy. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Combine Macaroni and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat all the pasta evenly.

Step 7: Add Pimentos

Stir in the pimentos, including the juice, for a burst of flavor.

Step 8: Bake (Optional)

If you prefer a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Smart Substitutions

Looking to customize your Pimento Mac & Cheese? Here are some smart substitutions:

Gluten-free pasta: Swap out elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Different cheese: Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat.
Vegetables: Incorporate steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.

Cook’s Notes

For a creamier texture, use whole milk or half-and-half instead of skim milk.
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Don’t skimp on the cheese! Extra sharp cheddar adds depth and richness that is simply irresistible.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare but possible), here’s how to store your Pimento Mac & Cheese:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my cheese sauce is too thick?

If your cheese sauce becomes too thick, simply whisk in a bit more milk over low heat until you achieve the desired consistency.

Why did my cheese sauce separate?

This can happen if the sauce gets too hot. Make sure to keep your heat at a medium level and stir continuously to prevent separation.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes like shells, penne, or cavatappi for a fun twist on texture.

How can I make my Pimento Mac & Cheese spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper or mix in some hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Pimento Mac & Cheese is a delightful twist on a beloved classic, combining creamy cheese with the unique flavor of pimentos to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or as a side dish, this recipe is sure to please. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and indulge in the deliciousness of homemade Pimento Mac & Cheese!