Beecher's Mac and Cheese: Creamy and Delicious Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as universally beloved as mac and cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any meal. Among the many variations, Beecher’s Mac and Cheese stands out for its unparalleled creaminess, depth of flavor, and use of high-quality, artisanal cheeses. Originating from Seattle’s famous Pike Place Market, Beecher’s “World’s Best Mac and Cheese” has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world. This guide will show you how to recreate Beecher’s mac and cheese at home, offer tips on ingredient selection, and provide ideas for customizing this classic comfort food to suit your taste.

What Makes Beecher’s Mac and Cheese So Special?

Beecher’s mac and cheese is more than just a comforting dish—it’s an experience. The secret to its richness and flavor lies in the quality of the cheese used. Beecher’s Handmade Cheese, a renowned cheesemaker based in Seattle, crafts its cheeses using pure, all-natural ingredients, including milk from local cows free of artificial growth hormones. This commitment to quality results in cheeses that are rich, creamy, and packed with flavor.

Flagship Cheese: A semi-hard cheese that combines the sharpness of cheddar with the nutty undertones of Gruyère. It provides a bold, robust flavor and melts beautifully, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
Just Jack Cheese: A mild, creamy cheese similar to Monterey Jack, which adds a smooth, velvety texture to the sauce.

The combination of these two cheeses creates a mac and cheese that is creamy, tangy, and full of depth, making it a step above the average mac and cheese recipe.

Ingredients for Beecher’s Mac and Cheese

To make a delicious Beecher’s mac and cheese, you need high-quality ingredients. Here is what you will need:

Pasta: 1 lb of penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni (Beecher’s uses penne for a heartier bite)
Beecher’s Flagship Cheese: 2 cups, grated (or substitute with a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère if unavailable)
Beecher’s Just Jack Cheese: 1 cup, grated (or substitute with Monterey Jack)
Butter: 1/4 cup (half a stick)
All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup
Whole Milk: 3 cups (for a richer sauce)
Heavy Cream: 1 cup (adds extra creaminess)
Dry Mustard Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (adds a subtle tang and enhances the cheese flavor)
Ground Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a hint of heat)
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste
Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for added flavor)
Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (for a crispy topping, optional)
Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tablespoons (for toasting breadcrumbs, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Beecher’s Mac and Cheese

Follow these steps to recreate Beecher’s world-famous mac and cheese at home:

1. Prepare the Pasta

Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt helps flavor the pasta from within.
Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be careful not to overcook; you want the pasta to be firm so it holds up well when mixed with the cheese sauce.
Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta and set it aside. You can drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta to prevent it from sticking together if you’re not using it immediately.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt the Butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Create a Roux: Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, creating a thick paste (roux). Do not let it brown; keep it light and smooth.
Add Milk and Cream: Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Season the Sauce: Add dry mustard powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk to combine and ensure the spices are well incorporated.
Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the grated Flagship cheese and Just Jack cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

3. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Mix Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure that every piece is well coated in the rich, creamy cheese sauce.
Transfer to a Baking Dish (Optional): If you want a baked version with a crispy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. Optional: Add a Crispy Topping and Bake

Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Mix well to ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
Sprinkle Topping: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.
Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Serve Hot: Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with a crunchy top.

Customizing Your Beecher’s Mac and Cheese

One of the great things about Beecher’s mac and cheese is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences by adding different ingredients. Here are some ideas:

Vegetables: Add roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
Protein: For a heartier dish, mix in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or seasoned ground turkey.
Spices and Herbs: Customize the flavor profile with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives, or add spices like smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with other types of cheese such as smoked gouda, fontina, or Parmesan to create a unique blend that suits your palate.

Tips for Making the Best Beecher’s Mac and Cheese

To make sure your Beecher’s mac and cheese turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Use High-Quality Cheese: The quality of cheese makes a big difference in the flavor of your mac and cheese. Try to use authentic Beecher’s cheese if possible, or choose high-quality substitutes.
Don’t Skip the Roux: The roux is essential for creating a creamy, smooth sauce that doesn’t separate. Be sure to cook it just long enough to remove the raw flour taste without browning it.
Gradually Add Cheese: Add the cheese slowly to the sauce over low heat to prevent it from becoming grainy or clumping.
Season Generously: Taste the cheese sauce before combining it with the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. A well-seasoned sauce will elevate the entire dish.
Customize to Your Taste: Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional ingredients and flavors to make this mac and cheese uniquely yours.

Serving Suggestions for Beecher’s Mac and Cheese

Beecher’s mac and cheese can be served as a main course or a side dish. Here are some ideas for serving:

As a Main Dish: Pair with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty vegetable dish.
For Parties and Gatherings: Prepare in advance and keep warm in a slow cooker for an easy, crowd-pleasing dish at potlucks or gatherings.

Health Benefits of Beecher’s Mac and Cheese

While mac and cheese is often considered a comfort food, you can make it more nutritious by adding healthy ingredients:

High in Protein: Adding proteins like chicken, shrimp, or turkey makes the dish more filling and nutritionally balanced.
Rich in Calcium: The cheese and milk in the recipe provide a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Includes Vegetables: Incorporating vegetables like broccoli or spinach boosts the fiber content and adds valuable vitamins and minerals.

Ideas for Leftover Beecher’s Mac and Cheese

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—Beecher’s mac and cheese reheats beautifully. Here are some creative ways to use leftovers:

Mac and Cheese Muffins: Scoop leftover mac and cheese into a muffin tin, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until crispy for a fun, portable snack.
Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with mac and cheese. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender.
Mac and Cheese Grilled Sandwich: Use leftover mac and cheese as a filling for a grilled cheese sandwich. Add a slice of tomato or some fresh basil for an extra twist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beecher’s Mac and Cheese

Can I make Beecher’s mac and cheese ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature first.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While Beecher’s traditionally uses penne, any pasta shape that holds onto the sauce well, like shells or rigatoni, can be used.
How can I keep mac and cheese creamy? To keep it creamy, add a splash of milk or extra cheese sauce while reheating, and cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out.

Conclusion

Beecher’s mac and cheese is more than just a comfort food; it’s a rich, indulgent experience that delights the senses. By using high-quality cheeses and following a few simple steps, you can recreate this iconic dish in your kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, Beecher’s mac and cheese is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Beecher’s Mac and Cheese: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight