Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese

If you’ve ever indulged in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Boston Market’s Mac And Cheese, you know just how comforting and satisfying it can be. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my version of this beloved side dish—my Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese. This recipe captures all the rich flavors and velvety texture of the original, making it a perfect addition to any meal or a delightful standalone treat.

What makes this dish truly special is its blend of cheeses, which creates that signature creaminess that keeps you coming back for more. I love how easy it is to whip up at home, so you can enjoy this delicious comfort food whenever the craving strikes. Plus, it’s a surefire hit at family gatherings and potlucks, ensuring everyone is satisfied and asking for seconds.

So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making a batch of Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese that will have your taste buds dancing and your heart feeling warm. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Ingredient Notes

When making my Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese, there are a few key ingredients that really bring the dish to life. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some handy substitutions:

Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice, but you can use cavatappi or shells for a fun twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor. If you want a creamier texture, mix in some Monterey Jack.
Milk: Whole milk is perfect for creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk or non-dairy milk if needed.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness, but if you only have salted, just reduce the added salt.
Flour: All-purpose flour is used for thickening. Gluten-free flour can be a good alternative.
Seasonings: The classic combination includes salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. You can experiment with smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese:

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
Add Milk: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Incorporate Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the Sauce: Add ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If you like a crispy top, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese on top.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese!

Tips & Suggestions

Here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way to make your Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese even better:

Cheese Variety: Don’t be afraid to mix different cheeses. Adding a bit of Gruyère or Gouda can enhance the flavor.
Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese sauce.
Spice it Up: If you love a bit of heat, try adding some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
Make Ahead: This dish can be made in advance. Prepare everything, and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
Garnish: Top with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage

If you find yourself with leftovers (which I doubt will happen!), here’s how to store your Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Enjoy your homemade Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese, and feel free to play around with flavors and textures to make it your own!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy delight that brings the essence of comfort food right to your kitchen, then the Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese is an absolute must-try! This recipe captures all the rich, velvety goodness of the original, making it perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or just when you’re craving something indulgent. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. So grab your favorite pasta, and let’s recreate that iconic flavor that we all know and love. Trust me, once you try this Copycat Boston Market Mac And Cheese, it will quickly become a staple in your home. Enjoy every delicious bite!