Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese

Every time I think of comfort food, Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese comes to mind. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a nostalgia-filled journey to my childhood kitchen where I first learned the art of cooking from my grandmother. She had this magical way of turning simple ingredients into something truly special. I remember standing on a stool, eagerly waiting for the cheese to melt into a creamy sauce, and the aroma filling the air. This dish was always a family favorite, and I can’t help but smile every time I make it. The way it brings everyone together, from casual dinners to festive holidays, is simply heartwarming.

What’s In This Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese

The ingredients in Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese are a harmonious blend of rich flavors and creamy textures. The key players are the various cheeses which work together to create that classic mac and cheese experience. Each ingredient contributes to the overall deliciousness, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.

• 1 pound elbow macaroni – The base of the dish, providing a hearty and chewy texture that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 8 ounces butter – Adds richness and flavor, creating a beautiful sauce that envelops the pasta.
• 2 tablespoons sour cream – Enhances the creaminess and adds a slight tang, balancing the richness of the cheese.
• 1/2 pound Colby cheese – This cheese brings a mild flavor and melts beautifully, making the dish creamy.
• 1/2 pound Monterey Jack cheese – Adds a subtle sweetness and great melting quality.
• 1/2 pound sharp cheddar cheese – Provides a bold flavor that cuts through the richness of the other cheeses.
• 1 pound Velveeta cheese – A classic for mac and cheese, it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce that binds everything together.
• 3 eggs – Helps to thicken the sauce, adding a custard-like quality to the finished dish.
• 1 cup whole milk – Adds creaminess and helps create the perfect sauce consistency.
• 24 ounces evaporated milk – Enhances the creaminess and gives a luxurious texture to the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the cheese and pasta.
• 1 tablespoon white pepper – Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon sugar – Balances the savory flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the mac and cheese.
• 1 cup shredded American cheese – A gooey addition that brings extra creaminess and flavor.

Step by Step Instructions for Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese

Cooking Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese is straightforward and enjoyable. With a few simple steps, you’ll have an incredible dish that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the process!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This is an essential step to ensure that the macaroni bakes evenly and develops that lovely golden crust on top.

2. While the oven heats, prepare the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. This texture will hold up well in the creamy sauce.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni, butter, and sour cream. Mix well until the butter is melted and everything is evenly coated. The warmth of the pasta will help melt the butter, ensuring a rich flavor.

4. Add in the Colby cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and Velveeta cheese. Stir until the cheeses are well combined with the pasta. The mixture should be creamy and cheesy.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, and evaporated milk until thoroughly combined. This mixture will help bind everything together and create a custard-like texture.

6. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta and cheese mixture. Season with salt, white pepper, and sugar. Toss gently to ensure everything is well combined. This step is crucial for flavor distribution.

7. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This dish ensures that the macaroni gets a nice crust while baking.

8. Sprinkle the top with American cheese, creating a gooey layer on top that will turn golden brown as it bakes.

9. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 45 minutes, until the top is lightly golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect balance of crispy and creamy.

10. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall experience.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to spice up your Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese experience, here are some fun and innovative ideas!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to two months. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped before freezing.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable additions: Mix in cooked broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist.
• Serve with: Pair with a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.

What to Pair With Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese

If you’re wondering what to serve alongside your Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese, here are some delightful options to enhance your meal:

• Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast complements the creaminess of the mac and cheese perfectly.
• Steamed Broccoli: This adds a pop of color and crunch, making for a well-rounded plate.
• Garden Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette dressing balances the heaviness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a delicious and healthy contrast.
• Holiday Gatherings: This dish shines during festive occasions like Thanksgiving or family reunions.
• Comforting Dinner: Serve it for a cozy night in, paired with your favorite movie.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese brings together the best of comfort food with its rich, creamy texture and delightful cheesy flavor. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a way to create cherished memories with family and friends. I encourage you to try making this dish for your next gathering or cozy night at home. You won’t be disappointed; it’s a meal that warms the heart and fills the belly.

Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food, Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. You'll love the rich flavors and gooey texture that make it an irresistible classic. Make it tonight and enjoy the warmth it brings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 540

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound elbow macaroni prepared according to package directions
• 8 ounces butter cut into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1/2 pound Colby cheese shredded
• 1/2 pound Monterey Jack cheese shredded
• 1/2 pound sharp cheddar cheese shredded
• 1 pound Velveeta cheese cut into small chunks
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 24 ounces evaporated milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 1 tablespoon white pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup shredded American cheese

Equipment

• 9 x 13 inch baking dish

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Place the prepared macaroni, butter, and sour cream into a 9×13-inch casserole dish along with the Colby, Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Velveeta cheeses. Mix well.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and evaporated milk until thoroughly combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta and season with salt, white pepper, and sugar. Toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle the American cheese over the macaroni.
6. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes, until lightly golden brown.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish for up to two months. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped before freezing.
• Tip 3: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Tip 4: Mix in cooked broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist.
• Tip 5: Pair with a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.