Pimento Mac and Cheese Recipe

The first time I made this Pimento Mac and Cheese, I knew it was something special. It wasn’t just another mac and cheese; it was an experience. My family, usually a tough crowd with new twists on classics, fell silent at the dinner table, a rare occurrence usually reserved for pizza night or Thanksgiving turkey. The silence was soon broken by requests for seconds, and then thirds. My son, who typically picks at anything with visible “bits” (in this case, the pimentos), declared it “the best mac and cheese EVER.” The secret, I believe, lies in the perfect marriage of creamy, sharp cheddar, the subtle tang and sweetness of pimentos, and that comforting, gooey texture that only a truly well-made mac and cheese can deliver. It’s Southern comfort food elevated, a dish that hugs you from the inside out. It has since become a staple for potlucks, cozy Sunday dinners, and whenever we need a serious dose of cheesy happiness. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a memory-maker, a crowd-pleaser, and, quite frankly, a game-changer in the mac and cheese arena. Prepare to fall in love!

The Ultimate Pimento Mac and Cheese: A Flavor Explosion Your Family Will Crave

Pimento Mac and Cheese takes the beloved classic to a whole new level of deliciousness. By incorporating the iconic Southern spread – pimento cheese – into the creamy cheese sauce, you get a dish that’s rich, tangy, slightly sweet, and packed with an incredible depth of flavor. This isn’t your average stovetop mac; this is a baked masterpiece, often crowned with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping, that promises pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re a die-hard pimento cheese fan or new to its charms, this recipe will undoubtedly win you over. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a family dinner, a show-stopping side dish for barbecues and potlucks, or simply a decadent treat when you’re craving something truly special.

Ingredients for Irresistible Pimento Mac and Cheese

To create this masterpiece, you’ll need a combination of quality ingredients that work together to build layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Macaroni:

• 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta: These shapes are ideal as they have nooks and crannies to hold onto the glorious cheese sauce.
• 1 tablespoon salt: For seasoning the pasta water.

For the Pimento Cheese Sauce:

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter: Forms the base of our roux, contributing to richness.
• 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour: The thickening agent for our cheese sauce.
• 4 cups (960ml) whole milk, warmed: Warm milk incorporates more smoothly into the roux, preventing lumps.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang that complements the cheese.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a hint of smoky depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, or to taste): For a gentle kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Adjust based on your cheese’s saltiness.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Freshly ground is best.
• 16 ounces (450g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated: The star of the show! Freshly grated melts much better than pre-shredded.
• 8 ounces (225g) Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated: For extra creaminess and meltability. You can also use Colby Jack.
• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, cut into cubes and softened: Adds incredible creaminess and a slight tang, echoing pimento cheese spread.
• 1 (4-ounce / 113g) jar diced pimentos, drained well: The signature ingredient! Ensure they are well-drained to avoid a watery sauce.
• 2-3 tablespoons reserved pasta water (if needed): To adjust sauce consistency.

For the Topping (Optional but Recommended):

• 1 cup (75g) Panko breadcrumbs: For a superiorly crispy topping.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: To help the breadcrumbs brown and crisp up.
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds another layer of savory flavor to the topping.
• Pinch of smoked paprika: For color and a touch more smoke.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Pimento Mac and Cheese Perfection

Follow these instructions carefully for a Pimento Mac and Cheese that’s creamy, dreamy, and perfectly baked.

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch (or similar 3-quart) baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually about 1-2 minutes less than fully cooked, as it will continue to cook in the oven). Drain the pasta well and set aside. You can toss it with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent sticking if it will sit for a while. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining, just in case.
3. Make the Roux: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until a smooth, golden paste (roux) forms. Cooking the flour taste out is crucial.
4. Create the Béchamel Sauce: Gradually whisk the warmed whole milk into the roux, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This gradual addition is key to a lump-free sauce. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Add Seasonings and Cream Cheese: Stir in the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add the softened cream cheese cubes and whisk until completely melted and smooth.
6. Melt the Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually add the freshly grated sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, a handful at a time, stirring continuously until each addition is melted and the sauce is smooth and luscious. Adding cheese off the heat prevents it from becoming grainy or separating.
7. Incorporate Pimentos: Gently fold in the well-drained diced pimentos. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if necessary. If the sauce seems too thick, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
8. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently until all the pasta is evenly coated.
9. Assemble for Baking: Pour the pimento mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
10. Prepare the Topping (if using): In a small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, optional Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened.
11. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
12. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil.
13. Rest Before Serving: Once baked, remove the Pimento Mac and Cheese from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and prevents you from burning your mouth on molten cheese!
14. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra diced pimentos if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the incredible, cheesy goodness.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

• Servings: This recipe generously serves 8-10 people as a main course, or 10-12 as a side dish.
• Calories per serving (approximate, based on 8 servings): 650-750 calories.

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used, as well as portion sizes. This is a rich and indulgent dish, best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

The calories primarily come from the pasta, butter, milk, and, of course, the generous amount of cheese. While it’s undeniably a comfort food, the flavor payoff makes it worth every calorie for a special occasion or a cozy treat.

Preparation and Cook Time

Understanding the time commitment helps in planning your meal:

• Preparation Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes. This includes grating the cheese (highly recommended over pre-shredded for meltability), measuring ingredients, and dicing pimentos if you’re not using pre-diced.
• Cook Time: Approximately 45-55 minutes. This includes:
  • Cooking the pasta: 8-10 minutes.
  • Making the cheese sauce: 15-20 minutes.
  • Baking time: 20-30 minutes.
• Resting Time: 10-15 minutes (crucial for the sauce to set).
• Total Time: Roughly 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes from start to serving.

This Pimento Mac and Cheese is not a quick weeknight meal if you’re short on time, but the process is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. It’s perfect for a weekend dinner or when you have a bit more time to dedicate to creating something truly special.

How to Serve Your Glorious Pimento Mac and Cheese

Pimento Mac and Cheese is versatile enough to be the star of the show or an unforgettable supporting act. Here are some fantastic ways to serve it:

• As a Main Course:
  • Simply on its own: For the ultimate comfort food experience, a generous bowl of this creamy delight needs no accompaniment.
  • With a light side salad: A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
  • With steamed green vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus offer a healthy and vibrant counterpoint.
• As a Decadent Side Dish:
  • Barbecue Feasts:
    • Pair with pulled pork sandwiches. The cheesy tanginess cuts through the richness of the pork beautifully.
    • Serve alongside smoked brisket or ribs. It’s a classic Southern combination.
    • A perfect partner for grilled chicken or sausages.
  • Southern Comfort Meals:
    • An absolute must with fried chicken. The textures and flavors are a match made in heaven.
    • Serve with collard greens and cornbread for a true taste of the South.
  • Holiday Gatherings:
    • A welcome addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter spreads, offering a unique twist on a familiar favorite.
  • Potlucks and Picnics:
    • It travels relatively well (though best served warm) and is always a crowd-pleaser. Ensure it’s kept warm if possible, or bake it on-site.
• Garnishing Options:
  • Freshly chopped parsley or chives: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
  • Extra diced pimentos: For visual appeal and an extra pimento punch.
  • A sprinkle of smoked paprika: Enhances the color and smoky notes.
  • Crispy bacon bits: For those who love a smoky, salty crunch.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Pimento Mac and Cheese is bound to be a hit, leaving everyone asking for the recipe!

Additional Tips for Pimento Mac and Cheese Success

To elevate your Pimento Mac and Cheese from great to absolutely divine, consider these five essential tips:

1. Grate Your Own Cheese: This is non-negotiable for the creamiest sauce. Pre-shredded cheeses are often coated with anti-caking agents like cellulose, which prevent them from melting smoothly and can result in a gritty or clumpy sauce. Taking a few extra minutes to grate a block of good quality sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack will make a world of difference in the final texture.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook your macaroni until it’s truly al dente – slightly firm to the bite. It will continue to cook and absorb some of the sauce during the baking process. If you overcook it initially, you’ll end up with mushy mac and cheese, which is a culinary tragedy nobody wants.
3. Master the Roux and Béchamel: Take your time when making the roux. Cook the butter and flour for at least 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. When adding the warm milk, do so gradually, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. A smooth béchamel is the foundation of a luxurious cheese sauce. Patience here pays off immensely.
4. Spice it Up or Tone it Down: This recipe has a mild warmth from the cayenne and smoked paprika. Feel free to adjust these to your preference. For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, or even incorporate finely diced jalapeños (sautéed first) into the sauce with the pimentos. For a milder version, omit the cayenne altogether.
5. Resting is Key Before Serving: As tempting as it is to dive right in when it comes out of the oven, bubbling and golden, allow the Pimento Mac and Cheese to rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This crucial step allows the molten cheese sauce to thicken slightly and set, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being overly runny. It also saves your guests (and yourself) from a painfully burnt tongue!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Pimento Mac and Cheese

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this delightful dish:

1. Q: Can I use store-bought pimento cheese spread instead of making the pimento cheese element from scratch?
   • A: While this recipe builds the pimento cheese flavor profile within the sauce, you could potentially incorporate store-bought pimento cheese. However, it would alter the recipe significantly. You’d likely need to reduce the amount of other cheeses and adjust seasonings, as pre-made pimento cheese already contains mayonnaise, cream cheese, and spices. For the best, most authentic result with this specific recipe, it’s recommended to follow the ingredient list as provided, which creates a pimento-infused béchamel rather than just stirring in a spread. If you do experiment, add the store-bought pimento cheese at the end, off heat, and be prepared to adjust consistency and other cheese quantities.
2. Q: Can I make Pimento Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
   • A: Yes, you can! Prepare the mac and cheese right up to the baking step. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30-45 minutes before baking to let it come closer to room temperature (this promotes even baking). You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. The breadcrumb topping is best added just before baking to maintain its crispness.
3. Q: Can I freeze Pimento Mac and Cheese?
   • A: Yes, you can freeze it, though the texture of the sauce might change slightly upon reheating (it can sometimes become a bit grainier, though still delicious). Bake as directed and let it cool completely. You can freeze it in the baking dish (well-wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil) or portion it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake, covered with foil, at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 30-45 minutes). Uncover for the last 10-15 minutes if you want to re-crisp the topping.
4. Q: What are the best types of pasta for Pimento Mac and Cheese?
   • A: Elbow macaroni is the classic choice and works wonderfully. Other great options include cavatappi (corkscrews), shells (conchiglie), rotini, or even penne. You want a pasta shape that has plenty of nooks, crannies, or tubes to capture and hold onto that luscious, creamy pimento cheese sauce. Avoid long, thin pasta like spaghetti or linguine.
5. Q: How can I make my Pimento Mac and Cheese spicier?
   • A: There are several ways to amp up the heat!
     • Increase Cayenne: Double or triple the amount of cayenne pepper in the sauce.
     • Add Hot Sauce: A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce (like Tabasco or a Louisiana-style hot sauce) can be whisked into the cheese sauce.
     • Use Pepper Jack Cheese: Substitute some or all of the Monterey Jack cheese with Pepper Jack cheese.
     • Incorporate Fresh or Pickled Jalapeños: Finely dice 1-2 jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat, included for more) and sauté them briefly before adding to the cheese sauce along with the pimentos. Pickled jalapeños can also be diced and stirred in for a tangy heat.
     • Add Chipotle Powder: For a smoky heat, add a pinch of chipotle powder along with the smoked paprika.

This Pimento Mac and Cheese recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an expression of comfort, a celebration of Southern flavors, and a surefire way to bring smiles to the faces of everyone who tastes it. The creamy, cheesy sauce, punctuated by the sweet and tangy notes of pimento, all baked under a perfectly crisp topping, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is truly unforgettable. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the joy of creating something wonderfully indulgent, and prepare to crown yourself the mac and cheese champion of your household!

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