Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese: A Cheesy Classic with a Special Twist

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting dish of macaroni and cheese. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether it’s at family gatherings, holidays, or even just a cozy night in. Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese is a version of the classic that takes it up a notch. It combines all the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with a few special touches that make it extra indulgent.

Growing up, mac and cheese was a staple in our home. My family’s recipe, known as ‘Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese,’ was passed down from generation to generation, and it was always the most requested dish at potlucks and family dinners. It earned its name because our family’s love of cheese rivaled that of any cartoon mouse. And with a recipe this good, who can blame us?

Why You’ll Love Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese

There are many reasons why Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese stands out from the rest:

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The sauce is made with a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère, giving the dish a deep, savory flavor.
• Crispy Topping: The topping is made with a blend of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, which adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
• Perfect Comfort Food: Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner, a potluck, or just a weeknight meal, this recipe is the epitome of comfort food.
• Customizable: While this version uses cheddar and Gruyère, you can easily swap in your favorite cheeses to make the dish your own.

Recipe Overview

Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese is a baked mac and cheese dish that combines tender pasta with a rich cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for serving a crowd, or for enjoying as leftovers the next day. The recipe is straightforward, but with a few key techniques and tips, you’ll achieve mac and cheese perfection every time.

Ingredients List

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Gruyère on hand, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even more cheddar. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs can easily be used to accommodate dietary needs without compromising the flavor or texture.

How to Make Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, one handful at a time, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more. Stir in the ground mustard, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
5. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
6. Bake the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling.
7. Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese is a hearty dish on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and proteins. Here are some serving ideas:

• Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the rich cheese sauce.
• Green Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts add a nice contrast in texture and flavor to the creamy mac and cheese.

Storage and Reheating

Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the breadcrumb topping may lose its crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s fully heated through.

Can I freeze Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese?

Yes, this dish freezes well. To freeze, assemble the mac and cheese without baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

What other cheeses can I use?

While sharp cheddar and Gruyère are traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Fontina, smoked Gouda, or pepper Jack for a bit of spice. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for a creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Mouse’s Macaroni and Cheese is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, cheesy hug on a plate. With its rich, creamy sauce and crispy topping, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this mac and cheese recipe will bring smiles to the table.

Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. We’d love to hear how you make this classic dish your own!