Save Pickle Mac and Cheese: The Viral Dill Twist A creamy, tangy macaroni and cheese infused with dill pickles for a viral-worthy flavor upgrade. This budget-friendly comfort food delivers a zesty twist on a classic favorite.
This creamy, tangy macaroni and cheese recipe became an instant favorite in our home once I added dill pickles, giving it a refreshing twist that amazed everyone.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 500 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 200 g (7 oz) sharp cheddar cheese grated, 50 g (2 oz) mozzarella cheese grated, 2 tbsp cream cheese
- Pickle & Flavor: 100 g (2/3 cup) dill pickles finely chopped, 2 tbsp pickle juice (from the jar), 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp black pepper, Salt to taste, 2 tbsp fresh dill finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Topping (optional): 30 g (1/4 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbling but not browned.
- Step 3:
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3 4 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Lower the heat and add cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Step 5:
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to taste.
- Step 6:
- Add chopped pickles, pickle juice, and fresh dill to the sauce. Mix well.
- Step 7:
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Step 8 (Optional):
- For a crunchy topping Preheat broiler. Mix panko with melted butter, scatter over mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish, and broil for 2 3 minutes until golden.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh dill.
Save This recipe brings family moments together especially when served warm on a cozy evening with loved ones.
Notes
For extra tang increase pickle juice or add more chopped pickles. Try swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack or Gouda for a milder flavor. Add cooked bacon or ham for a non-vegetarian version. Pair with a crisp lager or sparkling water with lemon.
Required Tools
Large pot, Saucepan, Whisk, Colander, Oven-safe baking dish (optional for topping)
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (dairy), Wheat (gluten). Some cheeses may contain animal rennet use vegetarian-friendly cheese if needed. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save This viral dill twist on mac and cheese is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do the pickles affect the flavor?
The dill pickles add a tangy, slightly sour crunch that brightens the richness of the cheese sauce, creating a balanced flavor.
- → Can I substitute the cheese types?
Yes, try Monterey Jack or Gouda for a milder, creamier texture that complements the dill and pickle flavors nicely.
- → Is the topping necessary?
The panko topping is optional but adds a delightful crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy interior.
- → What cooking tools are required?
You will need a large pot to cook the pasta, a saucepan for the cheese sauce, a whisk for smooth blending, and a colander to drain pasta.
- → Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes, just ensure to use vegetarian-friendly cheese without animal rennet for a fully vegetarian dish.