Indulge in the irresistible Bistro Mac & Cheese, a classic comfort food that offers a touch of elegance while remaining budget-friendly. Crafted by Charlotte Giltner from Mesa, Arizona, this satisfying dish is perfect when paired with a fresh salad and crusty bread. It elevates your dining experience, making you feel like you’re in a bistro, all without breaking the bank.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 package (16 ounces) uncooked elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups 2% milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
PREPARATIONS:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Meanwhile, in a Dutch oven, melt the butter and stir in the flour until smooth. Gradually add the milk and seasonings, bringing it to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce the heat, then add the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring until they melt. Mix in the softened cream cheese and Gorgonzola cheese, and finally, add the sour cream. Drain the cooked macaroni and stir it into the cheese sauce.
YIELD: 8 servings
PREP/TOTAL TIME: 30 minutes
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- For a crumb-topped version, transfer the prepared macaroni into a greased 3-quart baking dish. Combine ⅓ cup seasoned bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter, and sprinkle it over the macaroni. Bake the casserole, uncovered, at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until it becomes bubbly and golden.
TIPS:
- Customize the cheese blend to your preference by experimenting with different varieties like Gouda, Swiss, or fontina.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to the cheese sauce.
- Incorporate additional vegetables like sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli to boost the nutritional value.
In conclusion, Bistro Mac & Cheese is a delightful rendition of the classic comfort food that delivers a touch of sophistication while still being mindful of your grocery budget. Charlotte Giltner from Mesa, Arizona, has skillfully crafted this dish to be the perfect balance of flavors, making it a delightful main course when accompanied by a crisp salad and crusty bread.
The combination of perfectly cooked elbow macaroni and a velvety cheese sauce, enriched with shredded mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, and Gorgonzola, creates a symphony of tastes and textures. The savory blend of onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper adds depth to the dish, ensuring every bite is a moment of pure indulgence.
This Bistro Mac & Cheese offers a versatile canvas for culinary creativity. Experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences or incorporate wholesome vegetables to elevate the nutritional value. Whether you’re dining alone or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
The optional crumb-topped version adds a delightful crunch to the dish, making it even more enticing for those who enjoy contrasting textures in their meals.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in the ease of customization. By adding your unique twist, you can make it a signature dish that everyone will love.
So, embrace the comfort and elegance of Bistro Mac & Cheese, and let each mouthful transport you to a bistro-like experience that will leave you longing for more.




