What makes this Cowboy Mac ‘n Cheese the star of the show? It’s Four Sixes™ Taylor Sheridan’s Original Cowboy Seasoning Blend! This creamy, crunchy, cheesy dish is perfect for a crisp fall night. Try it with sharp cheddar cheese, or even some gruyere!
Baked mac ‘n cheese is the perfect fall comfort dish, but it also makes a great Thanksgiving side dish! We’re sure that if you’re serving this to your special guests, you’ll want to make sure it turns out absolutely perfect. Baked mac ‘n cheese is a cozy classic, and there are plenty of ways to make it even better! Here are some tips to take yours to the next level:
1. Use Multiple Cheeses
- Combine cheeses for a richer, deeper flavor. A mix of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan works well. Cheddar adds sharpness, Gruyère adds nuttiness, and mozzarella gives a creamy stretch.
2. Make a Creamy Bechamel Sauce
- Start with a roux (equal parts butter and flour) and cook it until slightly golden. Slowly add warmed milk while whisking to avoid lumps, then cook until it thickens. A creamy bechamel sauce is the base for a silky cheese sauce that coats the pasta.
3. Season the Sauce Well
- Season the bechamel with salt, pepper, and a bit Four Sixes™ Taylor Sheridan’s Original Cowboy Seasoning Blend. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can also add a subtle tang.
4. Undercook the Pasta
- Cook the pasta 1-2 minutes shy of al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, so undercooking prevents it from becoming mushy.
5. Use Fresh Grated Cheese
- Grate cheese yourself for smoother melting. Pre-shredded cheese often has additives that can affect the sauce texture.
6. Add Texture with a Topping
- Mix breadcrumbs (panko works well) with a bit of melted butter and Parmesan for a crispy topping. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
7. Layer the Cheese
- For extra cheesiness, sprinkle some cheese between layers of pasta and sauce before topping with the breadcrumb mixture. It creates a gooey, layered effect.
8. Bake Uncovered
- Baking uncovered helps the top get golden and crispy. Bake at around 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
9. Let it Rest Before Serving
- Let the mac and cheese sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows it to set up a bit so it serves neatly without falling apart.
10. Customize with Add-Ins (Optional)
- Mix in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or sautéed mushrooms to add unique flavors and textures.
Four Sixes™ Cowboy Mac 'n Cheese
What makes this Cowboy Mac 'n Cheese the star of the show? It's Four Sixes™ Taylor Sheridan's Original Cowboy Seasoning Blend! This creamy, crunchy, cheesy dish is perfect for a crisp fall night. Try it with sharp cheddar cheese, or even some gruyere!
Ingredients
For the Mac
- 8 oz Elbow macaroni
- Member's Mark™ Sea Salt Grinder, to taste
- 4 tbsp Member's Mark™ Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter
- ¼ cup Member's Mark™ All Purpose Flour
- 1 tbsp Four Sixes™ Taylor Sheridan's Original Cowboy Seasoning Blend
- 2 cups Milk
- 2½ cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
For the Topping
- ⅔ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Four Sixes™ Taylor Sheridan's Original Cowboy Seasoning Blend
- 2 tbsp Member's Mark™ Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9x9-inch pan with cooking spray; set aside.
- Bring 3 quarts of water and Member's Mark™ Sea Salt Grinder in a large saucepan to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and stir.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 6-7 minutes. Drain well, return to pan; set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tbsp Member's Mark™ Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in Member's Mark™ All Purpose Flour, Four Sixes™ Taylor Sheridan's Original Cowboy Seasoning Blend, and a dash of Member's Mark™ Sea Salt Grinder. Cook while whisking for 2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking, bring to a simmer, and cook for 1-2 minutes. Stir in the cheese a little at a time until melted and well blended. Remove from the heat and pour over the drained pasta. Mix well then pour into the baking dish.
- Mix the breadcrumbs and 1 tsp Four Sixes™ Taylor Sheridan's Original Cowboy Seasoning Blend together in a small bowl. Pour melted butter over the mixture and stir well. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the pasta. Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly.
