Can I use different cheeses in this dish?

Yes, swapping cheddar for Gruyère or adding mozzarella can create a creamier or more complex flavor profile.

How do I add a crunchy topping?

Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle over the mac and cheese, and bake until golden brown for a crispy finish.

The finely chopped dill pickles and pickle juice add a bright, tangy note that balances the creamy cheese sauce.

Yes, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced pickled jalapeños to introduce some heat.

Yes, it contains no meat and uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients like cheese and pasta.

A creamy, tangy macaroni and cheese infused with the bright flavor of dill pickles—an irresistible comfort food with a zesty kick.

I discovered this recipe when craving a twist on traditional mac and cheese and it quickly became a family favorite.

Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 170 g (6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese shredded, 85 g (3 oz) Monterey Jack cheese shredded, 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp garlic powder, Salt and black pepper to taste
Pickle Twist: 120 g (about 1 cup) dill pickles finely chopped, 60 ml (1/4 cup) dill pickle juice, 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Topping (optional): 60 g (1/2 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted

Preheat the oven:: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) if baking with topping.
Cook macaroni:: Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make roux:: In a large saucepan melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Add milk:: Gradually whisk in the milk and cook stirring constantly until slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
Add cheese:: Lower heat and add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
Season sauce:: Add Dijon mustard garlic powder pickle juice chopped pickles and fresh dill. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine macaroni and sauce:: Fold in the cooked macaroni until fully coated with the sauce.
Bake with topping (optional):: For a crunchy topping mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese in a baking dish. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown.
Serve:: Garnish with extra chopped dill and serve immediately.

This recipe always brings our family together especially during cozy weeknights full of laughter and stories.

Large pot saucepan whisk baking dish (optional for topping) cheese grater

Contains dairy (milk cheese butter) and gluten (pasta flour breadcrumbs). Always check pickle and cheese labels for potential allergens or additives.

Per serving: 520 calories, 27 g total fat, 49 g carbohydrates, 21 g protein.

Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. This dish is guaranteed to impress your guests.

→ Can I use different cheeses in this dish?: Yes, swapping cheddar for Gruyère or adding mozzarella can create a creamier or more complex flavor profile.
→ How do I add a crunchy topping?: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle over the mac and cheese, and bake until golden brown for a crispy finish.
→ What gives this dish its tangy flavor?: The finely chopped dill pickles and pickle juice add a bright, tangy note that balances the creamy cheese sauce.
→ Can I make this dish spicier?: Yes, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced pickled jalapeños to introduce some heat.
→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?: Yes, it contains no meat and uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients like cheese and pasta.