Save This modern mac and cheese recipe transforms a classic comfort food with a tangy pickle twist that will have your taste buds dancing. The addition of dill pickles and their brine creates a perfect balance of creamy and tangy that elevates this dish beyond ordinary mac and cheese, making it an instant family favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
I first created this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed comfort food but craved something with a bit more personality. The pickle addition was a happy accident when I was snacking on pickles while cooking and realized they might be the perfect counterpoint to the rich cheese sauce. Now my family specifically requests "the pickle mac" whenever comfort food is on the menu.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: 450g or 1 pound. The ridges and curves capture the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons. Creates the base for your roux and adds richness.
- All purpose flour: 3 tablespoons. Works with butter to thicken your sauce properly.
- Whole milk: 700ml or 3 cups. Provides the creamiest texture. Avoid skim milk as it makes a thinner sauce.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 300g or 3 cups shredded. Choose a good quality aged cheddar for best flavor development.
- Mozzarella cheese: 100g or 1 cup shredded. Adds that stretchy cheese pull we all love.
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon. Enhances the cheese flavor without tasting mustardy.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon each. Adds depth without overwhelming.
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon. Brings a subtle smokiness that complements the pickles wonderfully.
- Dill pickles: 100g or about 1/2 cup finely diced. Look for crisp, garlicky pickles for best results.
- Pickle brine: 2 tablespoons. The secret ingredient that distributes tangy flavor throughout.
- Fresh dill: 1 tablespoon finely chopped. Optional but recommended for herbal brightness.
- Panko breadcrumbs: 60g or 1/2 cup. Creates an irresistible crunchy topping if desired.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous tablespoon of salt. Cook your elbow macaroni for about 7 minutes or until just al dente. The pasta will continue cooking slightly in the sauce, so aim for slightly firmer than you might normally prefer. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse, as the starch helps the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Create the Roux:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to foam but not brown. Add the flour and whisk continuously for exactly one minute. This cooking time removes the raw flour taste while creating a blonde roux that will thicken without overpowering the cheese flavor. The mixture should look like wet sand and bubble slightly.
- Develop the Sauce Base:
- Gradually add the milk in a slow, steady stream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This gradual addition is crucial for a smooth sauce. Continue whisking for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. You should be able to draw a line through the sauce on the spoon and have it hold its shape.
- Add the Cheese and Seasonings:
- Reduce the heat to low to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella in three batches, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be velvety smooth and richly flavored.
- Incorporate the Pickle Fix:
- Gently fold in the finely diced pickles, pickle brine, and fresh dill if using. The pickles should be distributed evenly throughout the sauce. Take a moment to taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or even a splash more pickle brine if you want to amplify the tanginess.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce, folding gently until every piece is thoroughly coated. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so if it seems slightly too saucy at first, that is perfect. Allow the mixture to rest for 2 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
- Add Optional Crunchy Topping:
- For an extra textural element, transfer the mac and cheese to an oven safe baking dish. Mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil until evenly moistened, then sprinkle over the top. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The topping should be golden brown and provide delightful contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Serve immediately while hot and at peak creaminess. Garnish with extra fresh dill or thin pickle slices for visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor. The mac and cheese should be velvety with pockets of tangy pickle and a gentle hint of smoke from the paprika.
Save The pickle brine is truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its potential when I was down to the last pickle in a jar and decided to experiment rather than waste the flavorful liquid. The acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce in a way that makes each bite more interesting than traditional mac and cheese. My daughter, who typically pushes vegetables aside, happily devours this version because the tangy pickle elements make the whole dish more exciting.
Storage and Reheating
This mac and cheese stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pickle flavor actually develops and improves overnight, making it an excellent make ahead option. When reheating, add a splash of milk and stir frequently to restore the creamy texture. For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium low heat rather than in the microwave, which can make the sauce separate or the pasta become gummy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are not a fan of dill pickles, bread and butter or sweet gherkins can work wonderfully for a sweeter profile. The brine still provides the necessary tang but with a different flavor direction. Dairy free versions can be created using plant based butter, oat milk, and vegan cheese alternatives, though the sauce may not be quite as smooth. Gluten free pasta works perfectly in this recipe just be sure to cook it very al dente as it tends to soften more when mixed with the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
While this mac and cheese stands proudly as a main dish, it pairs beautifully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing provides refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts complement the flavors while adding nutritional balance. For a crowd pleasing spread, serve alongside pulled pork or fried chicken for those wanting a heartier meal. The tanginess of the pickle fix makes this mac and cheese an excellent side dish for barbecue as well.
Seasonal Adaptations
Spring version Add blanched asparagus pieces and substitute some of the cheddar with goat cheese for a lighter profile
Summer adaptation Mix in fresh sweet corn kernels and diced cherry tomatoes just before serving
Fall variation Incorporate roasted butternut squash cubes and sage for autumnal warmth
Winter comfort Stir in caramelized onions and a pinch of nutmeg for deeper flavor
Success Stories
Many readers have reported that this recipe converted even the staunchest pickle skeptics into believers. The pickle flavor is present but not overwhelming, creating a balanced dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. Parents particularly love how the interesting flavor profile encourages children to try something new. Several have mentioned that this has become their go to potluck dish because it always generates recipe requests and stands out from traditional offerings.
Save This mac and cheese is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still delicious. Ensure any leftovers are properly stored for the best flavor and texture.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How does the pickle brine affect the cheese sauce?
The pickle brine adds a subtle tang and enhances the creaminess, balancing the rich cheese flavors.
- → Can different types of cheese be used?
Absolutely! Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Gouda to explore new flavor profiles in the sauce.
- → Is the crunchy topping necessary?
The panko topping adds texture and contrast, but it's optional if you prefer a smoother, stovetop finish.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly option.
- → What vegetables can be added for variety?
Steamed broccoli or peas mix in seamlessly, adding vibrant color and extra nutrition to the dish.
- → Does this freeze or reheat well?
Mac and cheese with pickles reheats well. Add a little milk when reheating for a creamier texture.