Beecher’s Mac and Cheese is a time-tested crowd favorite, featuring a rich blend of Flagship and Just Jack cheeses, enhanced with a touch of spice and perfectly baked.

Overview of Beecher’s Mac and Cheese

Beecher’s Mac and Cheese is a beloved dish known for its rich, creamy texture and flavorful profile. It combines Beecher’s signature Flagship and Just Jack cheeses, creating a smooth and savory sauce. The recipe involves penne pasta baked to perfection, with a hint of spice adding depth to the dish. To prepare, preheat the oven to 350°F and butter an 8-inch baking dish. Cook the pasta al dente, rinse it, and set it aside. The cheese sauce is made by melting Flagship and Just Jack cheeses with salt, chili powder, and garlic powder. Combine the pasta and sauce, transfer to the baking dish, and top with additional cheese and spices. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 10 minutes for a golden finish. This crowd-pleasing mac and cheese is perfect for both main dishes and sides, offering a comforting, indulgent experience.

Why Beecher’s Mac and Cheese is a Crowd Favorite

Beecher’s Mac and Cheese stands out as a crowd favorite due to its rich, creamy texture and the perfect balance of flavors. The dish uses a blend of high-quality cheeses, including Flagship and Just Jack, which provide a smooth and savory sauce. The addition of spices like chili powder and garlic powder adds a subtle depth without overpowering the dish. Its mild, kid-friendly flavor makes it a hit with families, while the abundance of bechamel sauce ensures a comforting and indulgent experience. The ease of preparation and baking further enhances its appeal, making it a convenient and satisfying option for both home cooks and busy families. Available year-round in the Costco deli section, Beecher’s Mac and Cheese offers consistency and reliability, cementing its status as a beloved dish for many.

Ingredients Required

Beecher’s Mac and Cheese requires Flagship cheese, Just Jack cheese, pasta, salt, chili powder, and garlic powder for a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish.

Cheeses Used in Beecher’s Mac and Cheese

Beecher’s Mac and Cheese prominently features two signature cheeses: Flagship and Just Jack. Flagship cheese, a semi-hard cow’s milk cheese with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor, provides a robust base for the dish. Just Jack, a mild, creamy monterey jack cheese, adds a smooth and velvety texture. Together, these cheeses create a balanced, rich, and creamy sauce that defines the recipe. The combination of flavors ensures a deep, satisfying taste that is both comforting and indulgent. These cheeses are meticulously selected to ensure the mac and cheese achieves its signature texture and flavor profile, making it a standout dish for cheese lovers. The cheeses are melted to perfection, blending seamlessly to create a dish that is both nostalgic and sophisticated.

Additional Ingredients and Seasonings

Beyond the cheeses, Beecher’s Mac and Cheese incorporates several additional ingredients to enhance flavor and texture. Salt is added to balance the richness of the cheeses, while a hint of chili powder and garlic powder introduce subtle spice and depth. The recipe also includes milk, which contributes to the creamy consistency of the sauce, and butter, which enriches the overall flavor. Pasta, specifically penne, is the base of the dish, providing a sturdy texture that holds the sauce well. These ingredients work together to create a harmonious and satisfying dish. Optional additions, such as a sprinkle of extra chili powder on top, allow for customization to suit individual tastes. The combination of these elements ensures a comforting and flavorful experience.

Cooking Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cook pasta al dente, then combine with a creamy cheese sauce made from Flagship and Just Jack cheeses, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Preheating and Preparing the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking. While the oven is warming up, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente, which means it should still have a slight firmness in the center. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will finish cooking in the oven. Once the pasta is done, drain it thoroughly and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step helps prevent the pasta from becoming too mushy when baked. After rinsing, set the pasta aside in a colander to drain completely. For an extra creamy sauce, reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining, as it can be added later to adjust the consistency of the cheese sauce. Properly preparing the pasta ensures the best texture in the final dish.

Making the Cheese Sauce

To create Beecher’s signature cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour, whisking continuously to form a roux, and cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, and bring to a simmer until thickened. Stir in 1-3/4 cups Flagship cheese and 1/4 cup Just Jack cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, and garlic powder. For an extra creamy texture, reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and add it to the sauce if needed. This well-balanced, flavorful sauce is the heart of Beecher’s Mac and Cheese, offering a rich, creamy base that enhances the pasta perfectly.

Combining and Baking

Combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce in a large bowl, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a buttered 8-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with additional Flagship and Just Jack cheese, along with a pinch of chili powder for extra flavor. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to crisp slightly. For a creamier texture, add 1 cup of reserved pasta water before baking. Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This step ensures the flavors meld together perfectly, creating a golden, bubbly, and irresistibly creamy dish that captures Beecher’s signature style.

Tips for the Best Results

• Add 1 cup of reserved pasta water to prevent dryness and maintain creaminess.
• Cover with foil during the first 20 minutes of baking to avoid burning.
• Avoid overmixing the pasta and sauce to ensure even cheese distribution.
• Let the mac and cheese cool slightly before serving for a firmer texture.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat Beecher’s Mac and Cheese, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to maintain its creamy texture. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. For a quicker option, reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk, stirring every 30 seconds until warmed through. Avoid overheating, as it can make the dish dry. This method ensures a warm, creamy, and flavorful experience every time. Always save toppings like extra cheese or chili powder for after reheating to preserve their texture and flavor. This approach keeps the mac and cheese fresh and delicious even after refrigeration.

Customizations and Variations

Beecher’s Mac and Cheese can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Add cooked bacon, ham, or chicken for a protein-packed twist. Mix in steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition. For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the cheese sauce. Try topping with crushed crackers or crispy breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or parmesan, for a unique flavor profile. For a spicy kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. These variations allow you to personalize the dish while maintaining its creamy, cheesy essence. Whether you prefer it classic or adventurous, Beecher’s Mac and Cheese is a versatile base for countless creations.

Beecher’s Mac and Cheese is a delightful, crowd-pleasing dish that combines rich, creamy cheeses with perfectly cooked pasta. Its signature blend of Flagship and Just Jack cheeses creates a velvety texture that satisfies any comfort food craving. With simple yet precise instructions, this mac and cheese is accessible to both novice and experienced cooks. The ability to customize with added ingredients or spices makes it adaptable to any palate. Whether served as a cozy family meal or a side dish for gatherings, Beecher’s Mac and Cheese delivers a flavorful and satisfying experience. Its creamy goodness and versatility ensure it remains a timeless favorite for many. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, cheesy comfort it brings to your table!