Potluck recipes- as promised!
My approach to potlucks has changed over the years. Previously, I would use the party goers as my guinea pigs to try new recipes I found interesting. However, after many failed dishes, I’ve changed my strategy and have tried to hone in on a few signature dishes that work well in any crowd. For desserts, it’s usually my Peach and Raspberry Crisp, but when I want to bring something savory, I like this Macaroni & Cheese recipe that I made a few small changes to from AllRecipes. I like my Mac & Cheese to have a little bite, so I don’t skimp on the dry mustard and prefer to use an extra sharp cheddar. We’ve used this recipe as a base and have added bacon, peas, even a little cayenne pepper for a kick. Enjoy!
Recipe: Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 8 ounces macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded extra sharp Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Place the panko crumbs into a small bowl and mix well with the melted butter; set aside.
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
- Add macaroni and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain, then place into prepared casserole dish.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the minced onion and cook until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the flour, salt, pepper and dry mustard until incorporated, then pour in the milk and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer, stirring constantly until the milk has thickened, about 10 minutes.
- Take the milk off of the heat and stir in the Cheddar cheese until melted.
- Pour cheese sauce over the macaroni, then sprinkle evenly with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake until the top is golden and bubbly, about 20 minutes.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for a few minutes, but we keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.