Alton Brown Mac and Cheese Recipe

Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and rich in flavor. While many recipes exist, few can match the perfection of Alton Brown’s mac and cheese recipe. Known for his scientific approach to cooking, Alton Brown has redefined this classic dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and the perfect creamy texture.

From his stovetop version to the baked mac and cheese recipe, Alton Brown has experimented with different techniques to achieve the ultimate dish. His “Mac and Cheese Reloaded” episode introduced even more refined tweaks to an already beloved recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick stovetop fix or the perfect baked version, Brown’s take on mac and cheese delivers both taste and texture.

In this guide, we’ll explore Alton Brown’s mac and cheese recipe, including its origins, variations, and expert tips for making it even better. Whether you want to replicate the version from his Alton Brown Mac and Cheese episode or try a twist on Ina Garten’s mac and cheese, you’ll find everything you need to make the best mac and cheese recipe at home.

What is the Alton Brown Mac and Cheese Recipe?

Alton Brown’s mac and cheese recipe is a meticulously crafted take on the beloved classic. Unlike the traditional versions that rely solely on heavy cream and excessive butter, Brown focuses on a balanced approach using a béchamel-based cheese sauce, which creates a smooth and velvety texture.

The recipe gained widespread popularity from his Alton Brown Mac and Cheese episode on Good Eats, where he broke down the science behind the perfect cheese sauce. Later, in Mac and Cheese Reloaded, he revisited and refined the dish, adding even more depth of flavor and adjusting the technique for an improved result.

Key Features of Alton Brown’s Mac and Cheese Recipe

1. Roux-Based Cheese Sauce: Instead of just melting cheese into milk, Alton Brown starts with a roux (butter and flour mixture), which helps create a stable, creamy sauce that doesn’t break or become grainy.
2. Aged Cheddar for Flavor: He emphasizes the use of sharp cheddar, which delivers a bold cheese flavor without being overly greasy.
3. Balanced Seasoning: Ingredients like dry mustard, paprika, and even a hint of cayenne enhance the dish’s depth.
4. Baked Perfection or Stovetop Simplicity: Depending on your preference, Alton Brown offers both a baked mac and cheese recipe and a stovetop version.
5. Panko Breadcrumb Topping (for Baked Version): Instead of regular breadcrumbs, he uses panko mixed with butter for extra crunch and texture.

Why Alton Brown’s Recipe Stands Out

Unlike many mac and cheese recipes that turn out greasy or overly dense, Alton Brown’s version maintains a perfect balance of creaminess and cheesiness. Whether you’re making his Alton Brown Baked Mac and Cheese or the quicker Alton Brown Mac and Cheese Stovetop method, his scientific approach ensures consistent, delicious results every time.

Health Benefits of Mac and Cheese

While mac and cheese is often seen as an indulgent comfort food, it does offer some nutritional benefits—especially when made with quality ingredients like those in Alton Brown’s mac and cheese recipe. Here are five key health benefits of this dish:

1. High in Calcium for Strong Bones

Cheese and milk, two primary ingredients in mac and cheese, are excellent sources of calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, preventing osteoporosis, and supporting muscle function. Choosing aged cheddar, as Alton Brown recommends, enhances both flavor and calcium content.

2. A Good Source of Protein

Mac and cheese provides a solid dose of protein, particularly if made with high-quality cheese and milk. Protein is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall cellular function. Adding extra cheese or incorporating protein-rich add-ins like grilled chicken or bacon can further boost the protein content.

3. Provides Quick Energy

The carbohydrates in macaroni serve as a quick energy source. While simple carbs can cause spikes in blood sugar, pairing them with cheese and milk provides a better balance of macronutrients, helping sustain energy levels for longer periods.

4. Supports Brain Function

Cheese contains healthy fats, which are essential for brain function and cognitive health. The inclusion of B vitamins, particularly B12, in dairy-based mac and cheese can also contribute to improved focus and memory.

5. Comfort Food Benefits Mental Well-Being

Mac and cheese is a well-known comfort food, meaning it can have a positive effect on mental well-being. The combination of creamy texture, rich cheese, and warm pasta can boost mood and provide a sense of nostalgia and satisfaction.

While mac and cheese isn’t necessarily a “superfood,” using quality ingredients and making smart modifications—like whole wheat pasta or reduced-fat cheese—can make it a more nutritious option.

Expert Tips for Maximum Effectiveness

To master Alton Brown’s mac and cheese recipe, it’s essential to understand the science behind each ingredient and technique. Here are ten expert tips to elevate your mac and cheese to the next level:

1. Use a Roux for a Stable Sauce

A roux (butter and flour mixture) helps prevent the cheese sauce from breaking. Cooking the flour until it turns slightly golden ensures a smooth, non-grainy texture.

2. Choose the Right Cheese

For the best flavor and texture, use aged sharp cheddar—it melts well and provides the tangy depth that makes Alton Brown’s recipe stand out. For variety, try adding Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a more complex taste.

3. Avoid Pre-Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Always grate cheese fresh for the best melting consistency.

4. Incorporate Dry Mustard and Paprika

Alton Brown’s recipe includes dry mustard for an extra zing and paprika for subtle smokiness. These seasonings enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the cheese.

5. Stir in Cheese Gradually

Adding cheese too quickly can cause clumping and separation. Stir it in gradually over low heat, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce.

6. Use Evaporated Milk for Extra Creaminess

If you want a creamier texture, swap some of the regular milk for evaporated milk, as Alton Brown does in his Mac and Cheese Reloaded recipe. This trick ensures a rich and smooth consistency.

7. Add a Crunchy Topping for the Baked Version

For Alton Brown’s baked mac and cheese, a buttery panko breadcrumb topping adds a crispy contrast to the creamy pasta. Mixing panko with melted butter and a touch of Parmesan enhances the texture and flavor.

8. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Cook your pasta al dente (slightly firm) since it will continue cooking when mixed with the cheese sauce—especially if you’re baking it. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy.

9. Try a Smoked Version

For a unique twist, consider making smoked mac and cheese by adding smoked cheddar or Gouda. You can also briefly smoke the mac and cheese in a smoker for an extra depth of flavor.

10. Experiment with Add-Ins

While Alton Brown’s mac and cheese is perfect on its own, you can customize it with additions like crisped bacon, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or truffle oil. These additions enhance both texture and taste.

By following these expert tips, you can create a perfectly creamy, flavorful mac and cheese every time.

Ingredients and Step-by-Step Instructions

Alton Brown’s mac and cheese recipe is known for its creamy texture and bold flavor, thanks to his precise use of ingredients. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the essential ingredients and a step-by-step guide to making both the stovetop and baked versions.

Alton Brown Mac and Cheese Recipe

Emily

Alton Brown's Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a savory, easy-to-make dish that combines sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with a hint of mustard and paprika, all topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. This comforting classic is perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• 1 4-quart casserole or souffle dish
• 1 4-quart pot
• 1 3-quart saucepan
• 1 Whisk
• 1 Colander

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt divided
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked or regular paprika
• 3 cups half-and-half
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese grated
• 5 ounces Monterey Jack cheese grated
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Topping:

• 3 ounces Monterey Jack cheese grated
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

 

• Heat oven to 350ºF.
• Grease a 4-quart casserole or souffle dish and set aside.
• Place dry pasta and 1 tablespoon of the kosher salt in a 4-quart pot and barely cover with cold water.
• Bring just to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally, then test for doneness; you’re looking for al dente, about 9 to 10 minutes.
• Drain pasta in a colander but do not rinse.
• Meanwhile, melt the butter in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is pale blond, about 3 minutes.
• Whisk in the mustard and paprika, and cook until aromatic, about another minute.
• Whisk in the half-and-half, increase the heat to medium-high, and cook, whisking often, until mixture is slightly thickened, 7 to 8 minutes.
• Remove from heat.
• Stir in the cheeses, remaining salt, and pepper.
• Fold in the macaroni and move to the prepared dish.
• Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
• Toss the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and distribute evenly over the top.
• Bake until golden on top, but not dried out, 15 to 20 minutes.
• Cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Variations: For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions before baking.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Keyword baked macaroni and cheese, cheesy casserole, Comfort Food

Variations of the Alton Brown Mac and Cheese Recipe

Alton Brown has revisited and refined his mac and cheese recipe over the years, creating different versions to suit different cooking styles and preferences. Here are three popular variations you can try:

1. Alton Brown Mac and Cheese Stovetop

This version is quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner without the need for baking.

✅ What Makes It Different?

• Uses a stovetop béchamel-based cheese sauce for a silky smooth texture.
• No need for breadcrumbs or baking—just mix and serve immediately.
• Best when served fresh, as the sauce thickens over time.

✅ How to Make It:

• Follow the cheese sauce steps as outlined earlier.
• Once the pasta is mixed in, serve immediately for the creamiest texture.

Pro Tip: If the sauce thickens too much upon cooling, stir in a splash of warm milk to bring back its creamy consistency.

2. Alton Brown Mac and Cheese Reloaded

This version was introduced in the Good Eats: Reloaded series, where Alton updated his original recipe with modern techniques and ingredient improvements.

✅ What’s New?

• Incorporates evaporated milk for a richer, creamier texture.
• Uses a mix of cheeses (cheddar + Gruyère) for more complex flavor.
• Adds a bit of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami depth.

✅ How to Make It:

• Substitute 1 cup of whole milk with evaporated milk in the cheese sauce.
• Replace half of the cheddar with Gruyère for a nutty, melty texture.
• Add ½ teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce before mixing in the pasta.

Pro Tip: This version pairs well with crisped bacon or caramelized onions for extra flavor.

3. Alton Brown Baked Mac and Cheese

For those who love a crispy, golden topping, the baked version is the way to go.

✅ What Makes It Different?

• The panko breadcrumb topping adds crunch and texture.
• Baking thickens the sauce slightly, making it less runny than the stovetop version.
• Ideal for serving guests or making ahead of time.

✅ How to Make It:

• Follow the stovetop mac and cheese recipe up to the mixing step.
• Transfer to a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Top with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan.
• Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Pro Tip: Want a cheesy crust instead of a breadcrumb topping? Mix in some extra shredded cheddar on top before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Alton Brown’s mac and cheese recipe is a perfect blend of science and comfort, delivering a creamy, flavorful dish that stands out from traditional versions. Whether you prefer the stovetop version for a quick meal, the baked mac and cheese recipe for a crispy finish, or the Mac and Cheese Reloaded edition with a refined twist, Alton’s method guarantees rich, cheesy perfection every time.

By following key techniques—such as using a roux for stability, selecting high-quality cheese, and incorporating bold seasonings like dry mustard and paprika—you can elevate your mac and cheese beyond the ordinary. If you’re baking it, knowing how long to bake mac and cheese at 350 (20-25 minutes) ensures the perfect golden crust without over-drying the dish.

For those who love exploring variations, you can even take inspiration from Ina Garten’s mac and cheese, which includes nutmeg and Gruyère for a gourmet touch, or try Gordon Ramsay’s cream-based mac and cheese for a different texture.

No matter how you prepare it, Alton Brown’s mac and cheese remains one of the best mac and cheese recipes out there—rich, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. So grab your ingredients, follow these expert tips, and enjoy the ultimate homemade mac and cheese!