Dill Pickle-Infused Macaroni and Cheese

If you love creamy, cheesy comfort food with a tangy twist, this dish is perfect for you. The bright, zesty flavor of dill pickles adds a fun surprise to classic macaroni and cheese.

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TIME1 hr 30 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

cooking spray 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni 3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 cups milk 1 cup shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese ¼ cup minced onion 1 teaspoon chile-garlic sauce (such as Sriracha®) (Optional) salt and ground black pepper to taste 1 slice bread

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a casserole dish. Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the elbow macaroni until it’s just tender but still has a bit of bite—about 7 minutes. Drain it and set it aside.

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Step 2

While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the flour and keep stirring for around 5 minutes until it turns into a light golden paste. Slowly whisk in the milk and let it simmer, stirring regularly until the sauce thickens, which should take 10 to 15 minutes.

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Step 3

Once the sauce is thick and creamy, mix in the Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until they melt completely. Stir in the dill pickle relish, chopped onion, a splash of Sriracha, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Then, fold in the cooked macaroni so everything is well combined.

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Step 4

Next, butter both sides of your bread and tear it into chunks. Pulse them in a food processor until you get coarse crumbs, then sprinkle these crumbs evenly over the macaroni mixture in the casserole dish.

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Step 5

Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use sharp cheddar for a rich, bold cheese flavor that pairs well with the pickles.
- Drain the pickles well to avoid making the dish too watery.
- Stir the cheese sauce gently to keep it smooth and creamy.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines creamy, cheesy comfort food with a tangy twist from dill pickles. The unique flavor adds a refreshing bite that brightens up every spoonful. It’s a fun and unexpected way to enjoy a classic favorite.

Serving ideas

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. It also pairs nicely with grilled chicken or smoked sausage for a hearty meal. Garnish with extra chopped dill or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.