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DIY Mac N Cheese Bar

Create a DIY Mac N Cheese Bar for any gathering! Customize flavors with gourmet toppings, artisanal cheeses, and endless cheesy delights.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cheesy pasta bar, customizable mac and cheese, DIY Mac N Cheese Bar
Servings: 6
Calories: 450kcal
Author: Emily

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Creamy Sauce Selections

  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing
  • 2 tbsp truffle oil for drizzling
  • Fresh herbs parsley, chives, or dill, finely chopped, for garnish

Optional Toppings

  • Crispy bacon bits
  • Toasted breadcrumbs
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Diced jalapeños

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses, one handful at a time, until melted and smooth.
  • Add Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Transfer to a large serving bowl or slow cooker to keep warm.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce Selections

  • Pour ranch and blue cheese dressings into small serving bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs for a polished look.
  • Place truffle oil in a small dish or leave it in the bottle for guests to drizzle as desired.

Set Up the Toppings Bar

  • Arrange the creamy sauces and optional toppings in small bowls with serving utensils. Place them near the mac and cheese for guests to customize their dishes.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Allow guests to assemble their gourmet mac and cheese bowls, adding creamy sauces, toppings, and a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxurious experience.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
    • Fiber: 2g
    • Sugar: 4g
Protein: 15g