Get ready for a comfort food masterpiece with this Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with Beer Cheese Sauce. This dish turns classic mac and cheese into a hearty, gooey delight, making it perfect for a family dinner or a fun gathering. Combining creamy cheeses, soft pretzels, and a hint of beer, it’s deliciously simple and sure to satisfy.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 620
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 58g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 850mg
Why Make Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with Beer Cheese Sauce
Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with Beer Cheese Sauce is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to indulge in your favorite flavors. This dish offers rich, creamy comfort combined with the satisfying texture of soft pretzels. It’s great for busy days when you need a quick, filling meal, and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it brings a touch of creativity to the traditional mac and cheese your family loves.
How to Make Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with Beer Cheese Sauce Step by Step
Ingredients
1 pound elbow macaroni
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup beer
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
6 soft pretzels, chopped into bite-sized pieces
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream over low heat until warm. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly pour in the warm milk mixture, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Add the beer, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and mix until well combined. In a baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni, beer cheese sauce, and chopped pretzels. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious combination of soft pretzels and creamy beer cheese sauce in this unique mac & cheese dish.
How to Serve Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with Beer Cheese Sauce
Serve Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with a side of crispy green salad for a refreshing contrast. You can pair it with spicy buffalo wings for a perfect game day dish or enjoy it alongside some roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. Drizzle additional beer cheese sauce on top for those who love an extra gooey experience.
How to Store Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with Beer Cheese Sauce
If you have leftovers of this delicious dish, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the mac and cheese before baking. Simply cover it tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking it directly.
Expert Tips for Cooking Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with Beer Cheese Sauce
- For added flavor, choose a stout or amber beer that complements the cheese.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for a richer taste.
- To give your dish an exciting crunch, add a layer of breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente pasta works best in baked dishes.
- Add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for extra texture and flavor.
Delicious Variations of Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with Beer Cheese Sauce
Spice things up by adding jalapeños to create a spicy version of Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with Beer Cheese Sauce. For a veggie-packed twist, include steamed broccoli or roasted cauliflower in your mix. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a citrus zest by adding lemon or lime to brighten the flavors.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that Soft Pretzel Mac & Cheese with Beer Cheese Sauce is a unique and delicious way to enjoy a beloved favorite. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and share. Make it for your next gathering, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds!
