Curtis Stone Mac and Cheese Recipe

This mac and cheese is the kind that makes you forget about every other version you’ve ever had!

Curtis Stone doesn’t just throw cheese into a pot—he builds layers that make every bite rich and unforgettable.

The secret? A combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère that melts into a silky sauce, wrapping around every piece of pasta like a dream.

I always let my béchamel cook just a minute longer than usual so it thickens up enough to cling to the noodles.

A quick broil at the end gives it the crispiest, golden topping without drying out the inside.

If you’re after a mac and cheese that feels like it belongs in a steakhouse, this is the one!

How to Make Curtis Stone Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 8 oz. Macaroni
• 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
• 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
• 2 cups Whole Milk
• 1 ½ cups Gruyere Cheese (grated)
• 1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese (grated)
• 6 slices Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• ½ cup Bread Crumbs
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.

Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute.

Slowly whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer.

Step 3:

Stir in the Gruyere and Cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring the pasta is completely coated with the cheese sauce.

Step 4:

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a buttered baking dish.

Top with crumbled bacon and bread crumbs.

Step 5:

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbling.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Cheese Choice Matters

You can use a mixture of Gruyere, Cheddar, or your favorite blend of cheeses for a unique twist that caters to your taste.

Try experimenting with different cheeses each time you make it!

Bacon Perfection

For the best bacon, cook until crispy but not burned to prevent an overly salty flavor that can overpower the dish.

You can use more or less bacon based on your preference!

Use Fresh Breadcrumbs

Using fresh breadcrumbs instead of the pre-packaged version gives a better texture.

Simply pulse some bread slices in a food processor for the best results.

Avoid Overcooking Pasta

Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it continues cooking in the oven and can become mushy if overdone.

This ensures perfect pasta every time!

Experiment with Add-ins

Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed onions, garlic, or even a bit of nutmeg to complement the cheese and bacon.

It allows you to put a personal spin on this classic recipe!

What to Serve with Curtis Stone Mac and Cheese

Grilled Chicken

A simple piece of grilled chicken makes a fantastic pairing with Curtis Stone’s mac and cheese.

You won’t believe how the light, lean protein complements the creamy pasta!

Whether seasoned simply or with a glaze, grilled chicken always works wonders.

Fresh Salad

Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh salad to accompany your mac and cheese meal.

The crisp and vibrant flavors in a salad are perfect for balancing that rich cheesy dish.

You can toss in some crunchy veggies or fruity elements to keep things interesting.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side that partners exceptionally well with any mac and cheese.

Its buttery garlic flavor perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy dish.

Plus, it’s easy to make, just pop it in the oven while your main dish sizzles away.

Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For those looking for something different, why not try some spicy roasted Brussels sprouts?

A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add just the kick you need.

Pickled Vegetables

Try adding pickled vegetables for a tangy and crunchy contrast to the mac and cheese.

You can pick your favorite vegetables to pickle and enjoy the way they cut through the richness.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is another creative idea to serve alongside Curtis Stone mac and cheese.

The smoky, savory notes from the bacon add a lovely depth of flavor to the overall meal.

It’s a straightforward yet sophisticated addition that feels special.

Variations and Substitutions

When making Curtis Stone’s mac and cheese, you might want to switch things up a bit, and that’s completely possible!

One way to do this is by experimenting with different cheeses.

Cheese Choices

While Gruyere and Cheddar are great, you can also mix in some Parmesan for an extra sharp kick.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding Blue cheese for a bolder flavor profile.

Vegetarian Options

If you want to skip the bacon, you can replace it with crispy tofu or roasted vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.

These options will add texture and flavor without the meat.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

Use gluten-free pasta and replace bread crumbs with a gluten-free cracker topping for those with dietary restrictions.

There are several delicious options in most stores that will keep your dish satisfying for everyone.

How to Store Leftover Curtis Stone Mac and Cheese

Cool Down First

Before storing, let your Curtis Stone mac and cheese cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, so it doesn’t raise the fridge temperature.

Cooling is important for food safety, and it also makes handling the dish easier when you’re ready to transfer it to storage containers.

Use Airtight Containers

Transfer the cooled mac and cheese to an airtight container, ensuring a snug fit to preserve its texture and flavor.

Using glass containers ensures that any cheesy aroma doesn’t cling to the container, which can happen with plastic over time.

Label and Date

Always label the container with the date, so you know how long it’s been stored, helping you keep track of freshness.

Proper labeling helps you avoid the guesswork when you’re rummaging through your fridge looking for leftovers to enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Wrong Pasta Shape

Choosing the wrong pasta shape can really affect your mac and cheese.

Opt for pasta that holds the sauce well, like elbow macaroni or shells, to capture all that cheesy goodness!

Using the right shape ensures every bite is extra flavorful.

Not Using Enough Cheese

Using too little cheese is a mistake you want to avoid if you want a rich, creamy dish.

You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère to get a perfect blend of flavors.

You should aim for a cheese sauce that’s smooth and luscious.

Skipping the Baking Step

You might be tempted to serve your mac and cheese right after making the sauce.

Don’t skip the baking step!

Baking adds that necessary touch that melds flavors together and creates a crispy top layer.