Sriracha Mac and Cheese
If you're craving a twist on the classic comfort food, this Sriracha Mac and Cheese is your go-to. It's creamy, cheesy, and carries just the right amount of heat to brighten up any meal. Perfect for those who like a little spice in their life!
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Ingredients for Sriracha Mac and Cheese
Elbow macaroni is the base of this dish, absorbing the creamy sauce beautifully while adding a lovely texture. Unsalted butter forms the base of the roux, offering richness without overwhelming saltiness. The all-purpose flour thickens the sauce, creating that classic silky texture. Whole milk adds creaminess, while sharp cheddar cheese provides a robust, tangy flavor. The star, Sriracha sauce, brings heat and depth, making the dish irresistibly bold. A touch of salt enhances all these flavors, while garlic powder adds a subtle aromatic note. For the topping, panko breadcrumbs offer a satisfying crunch, and fresh parsley adds a hint of freshness and color.
Sriracha Mac and Cheese Tips & Tricks
- For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of Sriracha to your liking.
- Grate your own cheese for a smoother melt; pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Serving Ideas for Sriracha Mac and Cheese
This spicy mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to balance out the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. A cold, refreshing beverage like a light beer or lemonade complements the spicy kick nicely.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different pasta?
- Absolutely, any short pasta like penne or fusilli would work well.
- Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
- Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake just before serving.
Sriracha Mac and Cheese Recipe Walkthrough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As it warms, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and set aside so it doesn't get mushy while waiting for its cheesy bath.
Next, grab a large saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Once it's a shimmering pool, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about a minute. You're aiming for a light golden color, which indicates it's cooked enough to lose that raw taste.
Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk. Keep stirring as the mixture warms and thickens; the goal is a smooth, creamy consistency. Remove it from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Sriracha, salt, and garlic powder. Mix until you have a velvety sauce.
Combine the creamy sauce with the cooked macaroni. Stir until each noodle is thoroughly coated. Transfer this mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the top with panko breadcrumbs and parsley for that perfect crunch and pop of color.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Why This Sriracha Mac and Cheese Works
- A spicy kick from Sriracha that elevates the classic macaroni and cheese.
- Quick and straightforward to make with pantry staples.
- Perfectly creamy, yet with a crispy, golden topping.
- Adaptable for those who love experimenting with flavors.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- 3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- 4. Add flour, whisking constantly for about 1 minute until golden.
- 5. Gradually add milk, continuing to whisk and cook until the mixture thickens.
- 6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, sriracha, salt, and garlic powder until smooth.
- 7. Combine the cheese sauce with cooked macaroni, mixing well.
- 8. Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs and parsley.
- 9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.