Best Alton Browns Macaroni And Cheese Recipes

Alton Brown is known to many as a celebrity chef, television personality, and author. He is most famous for his Food Network television show "Good Eats," where he combines science and food to educate viewers on the history, technique and science behind cooking. Among his many creations, Alton Brown is also known for his macaroni and cheese recipe, which has become a favourite among many home cooks.

What is Macaroni and Cheese?

Macaroni and cheese, also known as mac and cheese, is a classic American dish, which consists of macaroni pasta and a cheese sauce. The dish is commonly served as a side dish or a main course and is often seen as comfort food. The origins of macaroni and cheese can be traced back to the United Kingdom in the 18th century. It was often served as a side dish or as a dessert back then. In the United States, the dish became increasingly popular during the 20th century and has since become a staple in American cuisine.

Why Alton Brown's Recipe is Special

Alton Brown's macaroni and cheese recipe has gained immense popularity over the years, for a variety of reasons. Firstly, unlike many other recipes, it does not require a roux (a mixture of butter and flour), which can be difficult to master. Instead, it uses a cornstarch slurry to thicken the cheese sauce. This method is much easier and quicker, making it a popular choice among home cooks. Secondly, the recipe uses a combination of cheeses (sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and Parmesan), which gives it a unique flavour profile, unlike any other mac and cheese recipe. Lastly, the recipe uses a combination of spices, such as mustard powder and cayenne pepper, to add an extra dimension of flavour to the dish.

Ingredients

Alton Brown's macaroni and cheese recipe requires the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 ounces grated smoked gouda cheese
• 1 ounce grated Parmesan cheese
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Although we cannot share the exact recipe here, we can provide an overview of the steps that Alton Brown's macaroni and cheese recipe requires:

1. Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions.
2. Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat.
3. Stir in the cornstarch, dry mustard, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens.
6. Add the cheeses and stir the mixture until it is smooth and melted.
7. Stir in the cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You Should Try Alton Brown's Recipe

Now that we have learned about Alton Brown's macaroni and cheese recipe, it is worth noting that there are a few reasons why you should give it a try:

1. The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for home cooks at any skill level.
2. The recipe's combination of cheeses and spices adds a unique flavour profile that sets it apart from other mac and cheese recipes.
3. The absence of a roux simplifies the recipe and reduces the chances of failure, particularly for those who have struggled with a roux in the past.
4. It is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

In Conclusion

Alton Brown's macaroni and cheese recipe is a popular choice among home cooks for its simplicity, unique flavour profile, and crowd-pleasing capabilities. Its blend of cheeses and use of spices adds a distinct layer of flavour that sets it apart from other mac and cheese recipes. Now that we know more about what makes Alton Brown's recipe special, it's time to give it a try and join the many others who have already fallen in love with this classic American dish.

Macaroni and cheese is a simple yet delicious dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. While there are countless versions of this classic, one recipe that stands out is Alton Brown’s macaroni and cheese recipe. This recipe is widely loved for its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and perfect combination of spices. In this article, we will share some valuable tips on how to make Alton Brown’s macaroni and cheese recipe that will help take your dish to the next level.

Tip #1: Use Quality Ingredients

As with any dish, the quality of your ingredients will impact the final product. When it comes to Alton Brown’s macaroni and cheese recipe, using quality cheese is crucial. Opt for aged cheddar, gruyere or a combination of both. These cheeses are rich in flavor and melt well, resulting in a creamy and cheesy mac and cheese. Additionally, use high-quality milk, butter, and flour to create a roux that will form the base of your cheese sauce.

Tip #2: Don’t Overcook the Pasta

The key to a delicious mac and cheese is perfectly cooked pasta. Be sure to follow the instructions on the box and cook your pasta until it’s al dente. Overcooking the pasta will cause it to become mushy when combined with the cheese sauce. Also, be sure to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from sticking together.

Tip #3: Add Flavorful Spices

While mac and cheese is simple, it can sometimes lack complexity in flavor. To elevate your dish, add flavorful spices such as mustard powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. These spices not only add depth to the dish but also work well with the cheese sauce. Be sure to adjust the amount of spices based on your personal preference and desired level of spiciness.

Tip #4: Experiment with Different Cheeses

While Alton Brown’s recipe uses cheddar and gruyere, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. Try swapping out the cheddar for gouda or mixing in some fontina cheese. This will give your mac and cheese a unique flavor that may become your new favorite. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well for a creamy texture.

Tip #5: Add Toppings

If you’re looking to add some extra flavor and texture, consider adding toppings to your mac and cheese. Some popular options include breadcrumbs, bacon, and diced tomatoes. These topping options not only add flavor but also give your mac and cheese a nice, crispy texture.

Tip #6: Don’t Overcook the Cheese Sauce

One common mistake when making mac and cheese is overcooking the cheese sauce. This can cause the sauce to become grainy and lose its creamy texture. To avoid this, be sure to cook the cheese sauce over low heat and whisk constantly. This will ensure that the sauce remains smooth and creamy. Additionally, add the cheese gradually and allow it to melt fully before adding more.

Tip #7: Keep Leftovers Fresh

If you have leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to keep them fresh. Place the mac and cheese in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to the dish to help restore its creaminess. You can also add some additional cheese to freshen up the flavor.

Conclusion

Alton Brown’s mac and cheese recipe is a classic dish that is loved by many. By following these valuable tips, you can make this dish even more delicious and impressive. Whether you’re experimenting with different cheeses or adding some flavorful spices, these tips will help you take your mac and cheese game to the next level.