San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese brings a delicious twist to a classic comfort food favorite. Known for its rich and creamy texture, this recipe combines perfectly cooked pasta with a luscious cheese sauce that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish never fails to impress.
Using San Giorgio pasta ensures the ideal al dente bite that holds up beautifully under the creamy sauce. We love how simple ingredients come together to create something so flavorful and comforting. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their macaroni and cheese game with a trusted brand and a foolproof method.
Ingredients
To create the perfect San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese, we carefully select ingredients that enhance the creamy texture and rich flavor. Below are the essential components broken into categories to keep our preparation organized and efficient.
Dry Ingredients
- 8 ounces San Giorgio elbow macaroni (for that ideal al dente bite)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the cheese sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (balances flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adds subtle heat)
Dairy Ingredients
- 3 cups whole milk (preferably warmed for smooth sauce)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (the cheese backbone of the dish)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (melts beautifully for creamy texture)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for richness and smooth roux)
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crunchy golden crust)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (adds a savory sharp note)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (to sprinkle on top for color and mild spice)
- Fresh chopped parsley (for a fresh, herbaceous finish)
| Ingredient Category | Item | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | San Giorgio elbow macaroni | 8 ounces | Perfect al dente pasta |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons | Thickening cheese sauce | |
| Kosher salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor | |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Subtle heat | |
| Dairy Ingredients | Whole milk | 3 cups | Creamy base for cheese sauce |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups shredded | Bold cheesy flavor | |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup shredded | Melted gooey texture | |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Adds richness and smoothness | |
| Optional Toppings | Panko breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup | Crunch and golden color |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 tablespoon grated | Savory sharpness | |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Color and mild spice | |
| Fresh parsley | As desired | Herbaceous freshness |
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese, having the right equipment is just as important as using quality ingredients. Here is a list of the essential tools we need for a smooth and efficient cooking process:
- Large pot: For boiling the San Giorgio elbow macaroni to an ideal al dente texture.
- Colander: To drain the pasta thoroughly once cooked.
- Medium saucepan: For preparing the cheese sauce with precision control over heat.
- Whisk: To blend the butter, flour, and milk without lumps, ensuring a silky smooth sauce.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula: For gently folding the pasta into the cheese mixture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements keep the sauce balanced and flavorful.
- Baking dish: If we choose to bake the macaroni and cheese to get a golden, crispy topping.
- Oven mitts: For safely handling hot dishes when baking.
Here is a quick reference table summarizing equipment and their functions:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot | Boil San Giorgio elbow macaroni |
| Colander | Drain pasta |
| Medium saucepan | Prepare smooth cheese sauce |
| Whisk | Mix butter, flour, and milk without lumps |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Combine pasta with sauce evenly |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Measure ingredients accurately |
| Baking dish | Bake for a crispy topping (optional) |
| Oven mitts | Handle hot cookware safely |
Remember, a whisk is crucial to achieve the perfect cheese sauce consistency, while a baking dish lets us add that signature browned crust for extra texture. Keeping these tools within reach makes our San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese preparation seamless and enjoyable.
Preparation
To make the perfect San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese, it’s essential to carefully follow each step in preparing both the macaroni and the cheese sauce. Precision and timing will help us achieve that creamy, rich texture and ideal al dente bite.
Preparing the Macaroni
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, using about 4 quarts per 1 pound of San Giorgio elbow macaroni. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Season the Water: Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to the boiling water to season the pasta from within.
- Cook the Macaroni: Add 1 pound of San Giorgio macaroni and stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook uncovered for 7 to 8 minutes until the pasta is al dente – tender but still firm to the bite.
- Drain: Use a colander to drain the macaroni thoroughly. Avoid rinsing to retain the starch that helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Set Aside: Return the drained pasta to the pot or a warm bowl to keep it cozy while we prepare the sauce.
| Step | Action | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Boil water | 4 quarts water per 1 lb pasta |
| 2 | Season water | 1 tablespoon kosher salt |
| 3 | Cook macaroni | 7 to 8 minutes to al dente |
| 4 | Drain | Use colander, no rinsing |
| 5 | Set aside | Keep warm for sauce combination |
Preparing the Cheese Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until fully liquid and slightly bubbling.
- Make Roux: Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to the melted butter. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a smooth paste.
- Add Milk Gradually: Slowly pour 3 cups of whole milk into the roux while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps and creates a silky sauce.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove from heat. Stir in 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked San Giorgio elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently using a wooden spoon or spatula to ensure every piece is coated.
| Step | Action | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Melt Butter | 4 tablespoons unsalted butter |
| 2 | Make Roux | 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, whisk 2 minutes |
| 3 | Add Milk Gradually | 3 cups whole milk, whisk to avoid lumps |
| 4 | Simmer | 5-7 minutes, until thickened |
| 5 | Add Cheese and Seasoning | 2 cups sharp cheddar, 1 cup mozzarella, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper |
| 6 | Combine Pasta and Sauce | Stir gently, coat pasta evenly |
Directions
Follow these precise steps to create a rich and creamy San Giorgio Macaroni And Cheese that perfectly combines al dente pasta with a luscious cheese sauce. Each phase is essential to achieving a comforting dish that everyone will love.
Cooking the Macaroni
- Bring 6 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt to season the water, enhancing the flavor of the San Giorgio elbow macaroni.
- Add 1 pound of San Giorgio elbow macaroni to the boiling water.
- Cook the macaroni for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Aim for perfectly al dente pasta with a slight firmness.
- Drain the macaroni in a colander. Do not rinse. Retain the heat and slight starchiness for better sauce adhesion.
- Set the macaroni aside and keep it warm while preparing the cheese sauce.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until fully melted and bubbling.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour quickly to create a roux. Cook while whisking continuously for 2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and golden.
- Gradually pour in 3 cups of whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until completely melted and smooth.
- Season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine evenly.
Combining Macaroni and Cheese Sauce
- Transfer the drained macaroni back into the large pot or a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce over the macaroni.
- Gently fold using a wooden spoon or spatula until every noodle is fully coated in the rich cheese sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Baking the Macaroni and Cheese
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Optional toppings:
| Topping | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Adds a crispy golden crust |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup grated | Enhances nutty flavor and browning |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds subtle smoky aroma and color |
| Fresh parsley | 1 tablespoon | Chopped for garnish and fresh herb aroma |
- Sprinkle the desired toppings evenly over the macaroni.
- Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and allow to sit for 5 minutes before serving. This rest enhances the creamy texture.
Tips for Best Results
To master the San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese Recipe, we follow several key tips that ensure every bite delivers rich creaminess and perfect texture.
Use the Right Pasta and Cook It Al Dente
Start with San Giorgio elbow macaroni for the ideal bite. Boil the pasta in plenty of salted water—about 4 quarts per pound—to prevent sticking and enhance flavor. Cook the macaroni until it is just al dente, about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions. This ensures it remains tender but firm after baking.
Master the Roux for a Silky Cheese Sauce
When preparing the cheese sauce, slowly melt unsalted butter and stir in the all-purpose flour evenly. Cooking the roux for 2 to 3 minutes without browning prevents a raw flour taste while creating the perfect thickening base. Gradually whisk in whole milk, adding it in small batches to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
Choose and Combine Cheeses Strategically
Using a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives us both richness and meltiness. Grate cheeses finely for quicker melting. Add the cheese to the sauce off the heat to avoid curdling and stir gently until fully incorporated. Reserve a small amount of cheese for topping if baking.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning
Season the sauce with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Season the pasta water generously. Optional spices like paprika and fresh parsley used as garnish boost both color and flavor, adding depth to the final dish.
Baking Tips for a Golden Crust
If using toppings like panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, spread them evenly on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the top turns golden and crispy, about 20 to 25 minutes. Using a glass or ceramic baking dish helps heat distribute evenly.
Let It Rest Before Serving
After baking, allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time lets the cheese sauce thicken slightly and the flavors meld, resulting in a better texture and easier serving.
| Step | Key Details | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta boiling water | 4 quarts salted water per pound | Cook pasta 1-2 min less than package instructions (al dente) |
| Roux preparation | Cook butter and flour for 2-3 min | Avoid browning |
| Adding milk | Add gradually with constant whisking | Until smooth thickened sauce |
| Baking | 350°F (175°C) | 20-25 minutes |
| Resting | Off heat | 5-10 minutes |
Final Reminders
“Using quality San Giorgio macaroni with proper timing and technique is the secret to rich, creamy, and perfectly textured macaroni and cheese every time.”
We encourage careful attention to these details to elevate our homemade San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese into a comforting, crave-worthy dish.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
To enjoy San Giorgio Macaroni And Cheese at your convenience, mastering make-ahead and storage techniques is essential. Here’s how we approach the process to maintain the dish’s rich creaminess and perfect texture.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese up to the point before baking.
- Transfer the combined pasta and cheese sauce into a baking dish.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
“Making the dish ahead allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the rich, creamy taste of our San Giorgio Macaroni And Cheese.”
Baking from Refrigerated
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the cover and sprinkle your choice of optional toppings such as panko breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Storage Instructions
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Cool completely, cover tightly, reheat thoroughly |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Freeze before baking, thaw overnight in fridge |
| Reheating | N/A | Oven at 350°F for 20 minutes, or microwave stirring halfway |
Tips for Optimal Freshness and Texture
- Avoid freezing after baking to prevent the sauce from separating.
- When reheating, add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers to keep the flavor vibrant and the pasta tender.
By following these make-ahead and storage guidelines, we ensure our San Giorgio Macaroni And Cheese remains as satisfying and creamy as when freshly prepared.
Serving Suggestions
To truly elevate our San Giorgio Macaroni And Cheese Recipe, we recommend pairing it with complementary dishes and garnishes that will enhance every bite. Here are some expert serving tips to create a memorable meal experience:
Ideal Accompaniments
- Crisp Green Salad
A fresh, tangy salad balances the richness of the cheesy pasta. Consider a mix of arugula, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette for a bright contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables
Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add texture and a slight bitterness that complements the creamy mac and cheese. Toss with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt before roasting at 400°F (204°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Protein Options
- Grilled Chicken Breast: Lightly seasoned with herbs to keep the focus on the macaroni and cheese.
- Crispy Bacon or Pancetta: Adds smoky saltiness and crunch. Crumble on top before serving.
- Pulled Pork or Barbecue Meat: For a hearty combination perfect for family dinners.
Garnishes & Toppings to Enhance Flavors
- Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
- Add a dusting of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a subtle kick.
- For extra texture, top with toasted panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan and a drizzle of melted butter, then broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Serving Temperature & Presentation Tips
- Serve San Giorgio macaroni and cheese hot from the oven for that gooey, velvety cheese pull everyone loves.
- Let it rest for 5-7 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld perfectly.
- Use bright-colored plates or rustic casserole dishes to contrast with the creamy yellow tones of the dish enhancing its visual appeal.
| Serving Suggestion | Description | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Crisp Green Salad | Bright and acidic balance to cut through rich cheese | Light lemon vinaigrette, fresh greens |
| Roasted Vegetables | Adds texture and slightly bitter notes | Olive oil, garlic, 400°F for 15-20 mins |
| Grilled Chicken Breast | Lean protein option | Season with herbs, grill to perfect char |
| Crispy Bacon/Pancetta | Smoky and crunchy topping | Crumble on top before serving |
| Pulled Pork/Barbecue | Hearty meat complement | Serve on the side or mixed in |
Conclusion
San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese brings a delicious upgrade to a beloved classic. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, it’s easy to create a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and perfectly textured every time. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
By following the steps carefully and adding your favorite toppings or sides, you can make this comforting dish your own. It’s a reliable go-to that never fails to impress and always leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese different from regular recipes?
San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese uses San Giorgio pasta for an ideal al dente bite and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. The recipe emphasizes perfect texture, easy preparation, and a delicious twist on classic comfort food.
What ingredients are needed for San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese?
Key ingredients include San Giorgio elbow macaroni, all-purpose flour, kosher salt, black pepper, whole milk, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and unsalted butter. Optional toppings include panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, paprika, and fresh parsley.
What kitchen tools are essential for this recipe?
You need a large pot, colander, medium saucepan, whisk, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, a baking dish, and oven mitts for safe handling.
How do I prepare the macaroni to get the perfect texture?
Boil salted water, cook the San Giorgio macaroni until al dente, drain without rinsing, and keep warm before mixing with the cheese sauce.
What’s the secret to a creamy cheese sauce?
Make a roux by melting butter and whisking in flour, gradually add milk while stirring until thick, then melt in sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a silky texture.
Can I bake the macaroni and cheese?
Yes, adding toppings like panko and Parmesan then baking until golden and bubbly creates a crispy, flavorful crust.
How long should I let the dish rest before serving?
Allow the macaroni and cheese to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to enhance creaminess and let flavors meld.
Can I prepare San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake from cold, adding toppings as desired.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze unbaked portions for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing after baking to maintain texture.
What are good serving suggestions for this dish?
Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or proteins like grilled chicken or bacon. Garnish with fresh herbs, smoked paprika, or toasted panko for extra flavor.