Michael Symon Mac and Cheese Recipe

There’s nothing quite like Michael Symon’s mac and cheese to satisfy your cravings for comfort food!

The blend of cheeses and creamy sauce makes each bite a delight.

My favorite trick is adding a touch of mascarpone—it gives the dish an extra layer of creaminess that’s hard to beat.

Whether you’re new to this recipe or have made it before, you’ll love how easy it is to perfect.

How to Make Michael Symon Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 lb. Elbow Macaroni
• 4 oz. Gruyere Cheese (grated)
• 4 oz. Cheddar Cheese (grated)
• 4 oz. Mascarpone Cheese
• 2 cups Half-and-Half
• 2 cups Whole Milk
• 1/4 cup Butter
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 Egg
• 1/4 cup Ham (optional, diced)
• 1 tbsp. Hot Sauce (optional)
• 1 tbsp. Rosemary
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2:

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Step 3:

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

Step 4:

Whisk in the flour to make a roux, cooking for about two minutes until it turns golden.

Step 5:

Gradually add the half-and-half and whole milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.

Step 6:

Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened (about 10 minutes).

Step 7:

Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the cheddar, Gruyere, mascarpone cheese, and the egg until smooth and creamy.

Step 8:

Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

Step 9:

If using, mix in the diced ham and hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

Step 10:

Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish.

Step 11:

Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and rosemary.

Step 12:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Freshly Grated Cheese

Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce compared to pre-shredded cheese.

Undercook the Pasta

Cook the pasta a few minutes less than the package instructions. It will continue cooking in the oven, absorbing more of the cheesy goodness.

Customize the Flavors

Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations and add-ins like bacon or caramelized onions for extra flavor.

Avoid Overheating the Cheese Sauce

When making the sauce, ensure you don’t overheat it once the cheeses are added, as this can cause it to separate and become grainy.

Let It Rest

Allow the mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes for neater servings.

Enjoy your cooking!

What to Serve with Michael Symon Mac and Cheese

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables make a great side dish to Michael Symon’s mac and cheese.

Try roasting some carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a delicious and healthy addition.

The flavors of the roasted veggies perfectly balance the rich, creamy cheese.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with mac and cheese.

The crunchy exterior and soft, buttery inside complement the texture of the cheesy pasta.

A few garlic bread slices on the side transform your meal into a comforting feast.

Apple and Walnut Salad

For a fresh and unexpected side dish, try an apple and walnut salad.

The crisp apples and crunchy walnuts provide a delightful contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.

Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing taste.

Pickled Vegetables

Consider serving some pickled vegetables for a tangy, zesty contrast.

Pickled cucumbers, onions, or beets add a unique flavor element to the meal.

These sharp, acidic notes cut through the richness of the cheese.

Grilled Pineapple Slices

Grilled pineapple slices bring a sweet and savory twist to your plate.

The caramelized edges and juicy interior complement the mac and cheese’s bold flavors.

This unexpected side dish will surely be a hit!

Variations and Substitutions

Using different cheeses can change up the flavor of your mac and cheese!

Try swapping Cheddar for Gouda, or add in some Gruyere for a nutty twist.

For a Creamier Sauce

Consider using mascarpone instead of some of the Cheddar for an extra creamy texture.

You can also add a bit of cream cheese for a smoother finish.

Spice it Up

Incorporate paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat.

For an even bolder taste, try adding a dash of hot sauce.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

This keeps the dish suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Meat Lovers

Add bacon or ham for a meaty addition!

Simply cook the meat beforehand and mix it in with the pasta and cheese sauce for extra flavor.

Vegetarian Twist

Incorporate roasted vegetables such as broccoli or cauliflower.

These additions not only add nutrition but also bring in some nice textures and flavors.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your preferences and make the mac and cheese uniquely yours!

How to Store Leftover Mac and Cheese

Leftover mac and cheese is just as delicious the next day if you store it properly!

Refrigeration

Transfer your mac and cheese into an airtight container.

Place it in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.

It will last for up to 3-5 days when stored this way.

Freezing

Portion your mac and cheese into freezer-safe bags or containers.

Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Remove leftovers from the freezer the night before and let them thaw in the fridge.

Make sure to stir occasionally as it reheats to maintain a consistent texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Cooking the Roux Properly

When making the sauce for Michael Symon’s mac and cheese, cooking the roux properly is crucial.

You need to mix the flour with the melted butter and cook it for about three minutes.

This prevents a raw flour taste in your sauce and helps it thicken properly.

Using the Wrong Noodles

Avoid using long, thin noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine, which can clump together.

Shorter forms like elbow macaroni hold up better and mix more evenly with the cheese sauce.

This ensures a creamy, cohesive dish instead of a gummy mess.

Overcooking the Pasta

It’s essential to cook your pasta until it’s just al dente before mixing it with the cheese sauce.

If you overcook the pasta, it will become mushy when baked.

Al dente pasta maintains a good texture that stands up well to the rich, creamy sauce.