Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Chrissy Teigen’s take on this beloved dish brings a fresh twist that’s both creamy and packed with flavor. Known for her approachable and delicious recipes, Chrissy’s version transforms a simple favorite into something truly special.
Ingredients
To recreate Chrissy Teigen’s Mac and Cheese, we focus on selecting the perfect combination of cheeses, pasta, rich sauce ingredients, and flavorful seasonings. Each component plays a vital role in delivering the creamy texture and bold flavor that define this dish.
Cheese Blend
Chrissy’s mac and cheese shines with a carefully curated cheese blend that balances creaminess and sharpness:
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar (grated)
- 1 cup fontina cheese (grated)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
This blend creates a luscious melt with a punch of flavor and depth.
Pasta
Choosing the right pasta is essential for that classic mac and cheese bite:
| Type | Quantity | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 12 ounces | Cook until al dente, firm but tender |
This pasta shape perfectly holds the creamy cheese sauce in every bite.
Sauce Ingredients
Our sauce requires a silky base to coat the pasta luxuriously:
- 3 cups whole milk (warmed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
This combination thickens to create a rich sauce with a subtle tang that complements the cheese.
Seasonings and Add-ins
To elevate the dish with Chrissy’s signature flavor punch, we incorporate:
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for toasting breadcrumbs)
These seasonings add warmth and complexity. The crispy breadcrumb topping provides a satisfying crunch contrast to the creamy mac and cheese base.
Equipment Needed
To perfectly execute Chrissy Teigen Mac and Cheese Recipe, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Each tool plays a key role in achieving that signature creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Large Pot: For boiling the elbow macaroni until al dente. Make sure it’s roomy enough to avoid crowding the pasta.
- Colander: To drain the pasta efficiently without overcooking.
- Medium Saucepan: For preparing the béchamel sauce. It needs to heat evenly to avoid burning the roux.
- Whisk: Essential for combining butter, flour, and milk into a smooth sauce without lumps.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For folding the cheese blend into the sauce gently while it melts.
- Oven-Safe Baking Dish (9×13 inch recommended): To bake the mac and cheese with the panko topping until bubbly and golden.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient portions—accuracy impacts texture and flavor.
- Grater: To shred the cheeses freshly for maximum meltiness and flavor burst.
- Mixing Bowls: Useful for combining ingredients like the panko with seasonings separately.
- Aluminum Foil (optional): To tent the baking dish if you want to prevent excessive browning.
| Equipment Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boil elbow macaroni |
| Colander | Drain cooked pasta |
| Medium Saucepan | Prepare béchamel sauce |
| Whisk | Combine roux and milk smoothly |
| Wooden Spoon/Silicone Spatula | Fold cheese into sauce |
| Oven-Safe Baking Dish | Bake mac and cheese |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Measure ingredients precisely |
| Grater | Shred cheeses fresh |
| Mixing Bowls | Mix panko and seasonings |
| Aluminum Foil (optional) | Tent to prevent browning |
“Using the right equipment ensures our Chrissy Teigen Mac and Cheese reaches the perfect balance of creaminess and crisp topping every time.”
Having these tools ready helps streamline our process, allowing us to focus on the rich, cheesy flavors that make this recipe stand out.
Prep Work
Before diving into the cooking, proper preparation sets the foundation for Chrissy Teigen’s Mac and Cheese to shine. Let’s tackle the essential steps for prepping cheese and pasta to ensure optimal texture and flavor.
Preparing the Cheese
For the signature creamy melt, we start by handling the cheese blend precisely. Chrissy’s recipe calls for:
- Sharp white cheddar
- Fontina
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
Here’s how we prepare them:
- Grate all cheeses finely to ensure they melt quickly and evenly.
- Keep the cheeses chilled until just before adding them to the béchamel sauce to avoid premature melting.
- Measure cheese quantities exactly to balance creaminess and flavor intensity.
| Cheese Type | Amount (cups) | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp White Cheddar | 2 | Finely grated |
| Fontina | 1.5 | Finely grated; adds smooth creaminess |
| Mozzarella | 1 | Finely grated; provides stretchiness |
| Parmesan | 0.5 | Finely grated; boosts sharpness |
Tip: Mix the cheeses in a large bowl to ensure an even distribution before folding them into the sauce.
Boiling the Pasta
Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni is key to holding the luscious sauce without turning mushy.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook al dente — typically about 7 to 8 minutes depending on the brand.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once cooked, drain immediately in a colander.
- Rinse briefly with warm water to remove excess starch but avoid cooling the pasta too much; this keeps the sauce clinging beautifully.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Water-to-pasta ratio | 4 quarts water per 1 pound pasta |
| Salt amount | 1-2 tablespoons kosher salt |
| Cooking time (al dente) | 7-8 minutes |
| Post-boil care | Drain and rinse with warm water |
Remember: The pasta will continue to cook slightly in the oven, so a firm bite is perfect here.
By taking these steps carefully, we ensure that every element in Chrissy Teigen’s Mac and Cheese harmonizes perfectly — rich, creamy cheese melds with firm, tender pasta forming the ultimate comfort dish.
Directions
Let’s walk through the essential steps to create Chrissy Teigen Mac And Cheese with perfect creaminess and a golden crust.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Sprinkle in 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to cook the roux until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually pour in 3 cups of whole milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps.
- Add 1 cup of heavy cream and continue stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Whisk in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for a subtle tang.
- Season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder to build flavor depth.
- Remove the sauce from heat and gently fold in the chilled cheese blend — sharp white cheddar, fontina, mozzarella, and Parmesan — reserving a bit for topping. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
“The béchamel base enriched with the right cheese blend is what makes Chrissy’s mac and cheese irresistibly creamy.”
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Drain the al dente elbow macaroni thoroughly and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce over the pasta.
- Gently toss with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until every piece of macaroni is evenly coated.
| Key Tip | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pasta doneness | Al dente to maintain structure |
| Sauce temperature | Warm but off heat when combining |
| Mixing tool | Wooden spoon or silicone spatula |
- Pour the pasta and sauce mixture evenly into a buttered, oven-safe 9×13 inch baking dish.
Baking the Mac and Cheese
- In a small bowl, mix 1 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and a pinch of salt.
- Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly on top of the pasta.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce bubbles around the edges.
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving to set the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate Chrissy Teigen Mac and Cheese beyond a standalone comfort dish, we recommend pairing it thoughtfully with complementary flavors and textures. Here are our top serving suggestions to maximize the enjoyment of this creamy, cheesy masterpiece.
Perfect Side Pairings
Balancing the richness of the mac and cheese requires sides that bring brightness or crunch. Consider these options:
- Fresh green salads with tangy vinaigrette, such as arugula with lemon juice or mixed greens tossed with apple cider vinegar.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper.
- Crisp pickles or pickled vegetables to cut through the creamy sauce with a sharp acidic note.
| Side Dish | Recommendation | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Arugula Salad | Toss with lemon vinaigrette | Peppery, tangy |
| Steamed Broccoli | Lightly salted | Earthy, fresh |
| Pickled Cucumbers | Thinly sliced, chilled | Tart, crunchy |
Protein Pairings
Complement the cheesy richness with proteins that add a satisfying, savory contrast:
- Grilled chicken breast lightly seasoned with herbs for a lean, flavorful addition.
- Bacon or pancetta bits sprinkled on top for an irresistible smoky crunch.
- Seared shrimp tossed with garlic and herbs for a quick seafood twist.
Presentation Tips
For a visually appealing presentation:
- Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a rustic touch.
- Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Drizzle a touch of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Temperature
Serve the Chrissy Teigen Mac and Cheese hot and bubbly straight from the oven to enjoy its signature creamy texture and crispy topping. If reheating leftovers, use the oven or toaster oven to retain the golden, crunchy panko topping rather than microwaving, which can compromise texture.
By thoughtfully pairing this luscious dish with fresh, bright, and savory accompaniments, our Chrissy Teigen Mac and Cheese Recipe shines as both a comforting meal and a crowd-pleasing centerpiece.
Storage and Leftovers
Proper storage of Chrissy Teigen’s Mac and Cheese ensures that every bite remains as flavorful and creamy as when freshly baked. Here are the best steps to store and reheat leftovers for maximum enjoyment.
Storing Leftover Mac and Cheese
- Cool Completely: Allow the mac and cheese to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation which can make the dish soggy.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the leftovers to airtight containers or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate: Store the mac and cheese in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This timeframe maintains optimal texture and flavor.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: For extended storage, freeze the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date so you can track freshness.
Reheating Leftovers
To preserve the dish’s signature creamy sauce and crispy panko topping, reheating requires careful attention:
| Method | Instructions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent drying. Bake for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. Remove foil in the last 5 minutes to crisp the topping. | Best for maintaining texture and flavor. |
| Microwave | Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even warming. | May soften the panko topping; crispiness is reduced. |
| Stovetop | Heat leftovers gently in a nonstick pan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed. | Avoids sogginess but topping will lose crunch. |
Tips for Freshness
- Always reheat just enough for immediate serving to avoid repeated heating cycles which degrade quality.
- If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Avoid reheating macros and cheese multiple times to preserve flavor and safety.
By following these storage and reheating guidelines, we ensure every bite of Chrissy Teigen’s Mac and Cheese stays just as irresistible as the first.
Conclusion
Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy comfort with a touch of sophistication. With the right ingredients, equipment, and techniques, we can easily recreate this crowd-pleasing dish in our own kitchens.
Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side, it’s sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. Keeping leftovers fresh and reheating them properly means we can enjoy this delicious meal again and again.
This recipe truly elevates a classic favorite, making it a must-try for anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors with a modern twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese recipe unique?
Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese stands out due to its blend of four cheeses—white cheddar, fontina, mozzarella, and Parmesan—creating a creamy yet flavorful sauce with a crispy panko topping. It adds a fresh twist to classic comfort food while remaining approachable and delicious.
Which cheeses are used in Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese?
The cheese blend includes sharp white cheddar, fontina, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This combination ensures a smooth melt, rich flavor, and creamy texture.
What kind of pasta should I use for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni cooked al dente is recommended. It holds the creamy cheese sauce well without becoming mushy after baking.
What are the key ingredients for the cheese sauce?
The cheese sauce uses butter, flour (for the roux), whole milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and the cheese blend. Seasonings include kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
What equipment do I need to make Chrissy Teigen’s mac and cheese?
You’ll need a large pot, colander, medium saucepan, whisk, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, oven-safe baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, grater, and mixing bowls.
How do I prepare the cheese for the sauce?
Grate all the cheeses finely and keep them chilled until just before folding into the béchamel sauce. This helps the cheese melt evenly and smoothly.
How is the cheese sauce made?
First, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux, then gradually add milk and heavy cream until thickened. Season, then fold in the cheese blend until creamy and smooth.
What’s the best way to bake the mac and cheese?
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with seasoned panko breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown and bubbly.
What side dishes go well with this mac and cheese?
Fresh green salads, roasted vegetables, and pickled items balance the richness. Proteins like grilled chicken, bacon, or seared shrimp add savory contrast.
How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Cool completely, store in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture, or use microwave or stovetop for convenience.