San Giorgio Mac and Cheese is a classic American dish made with San Giorgio elbow macaroni pasta and a rich, creamy cheese sauce.

I love making Mac and Cheese with San Giorgio Elbow Macaroni. It’s super easy and always turns out delicious! My kids are big fans too – they get so excited whenever I tell them it’s Mac and Cheese night.

We all gather around the table and dig into big bowls of cheesy goodness. It’s such a simple pleasure, but it brings us so much joy. We chat about our day, share stories, and just enjoy being together as a family.

How to make San Giorgio Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 8 ounces San Giorgio elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish and set aside.

Step 2:

Cook the San Giorgio elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 4:

Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5:

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.

Step 6:

Add the cooked San Giorgio elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.

Step 7:

Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer for added texture.

Step 8:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 9:

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese!

Tips for making San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese

• Use a combination of cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyere for a rich and complex flavor profile. Be sure to melt the cheese slowly over low heat to avoid clumping.
• Don’t forget to season your cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices like garlic powder or paprika. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavor of your mac and cheese.
• Consider mixing in additional ingredients like crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or chopped herbs to add texture and depth to your mac and cheese.
• Once you’ve combined the cooked pasta and cheese sauce, transfer everything to a baking dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs or extra cheese for a golden crust. Bake until bubbly and golden brown on top for a delicious finishing touch.

Variations

San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese is a tasty dish that you can make in different ways to suit your likes and needs. One way is to add crispy bacon and diced jalapeños for a spicy and yummy twist. Another idea is to mix in broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition. If you like tangy flavors, you can try adding buffalo chicken with buffalo sauce and blue cheese. For something fancy, try adding lobster for a rich taste. Or, mix in spinach and artichoke hearts for a gourmet touch. These variations let you make delicious San Giorgio Macaroni and Cheese that everyone will love!

How to serve San Giorgio Mac and Cheese

To serve San Giorgio Mac and Cheese, simply scoop it onto plates or into bowls while it’s still warm and gooey. You can enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with your favorite sides like a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also delicious alongside grilled chicken, fish, or sausage for added protein.

For extra flavor, sprinkle some chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top, or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Serve with a smile and enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish!

How to store

To store San Giorgio Mac and Cheese, first, allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container or sealable plastic bag. Place the container in the refrigerator and store it for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can either microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. It’s best to enjoy mac and cheese within a few days for the freshest taste and texture.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make gluten-free mac and cheese, simply substitute gluten-free pasta for the San Giorgio elbow macaroni and use a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the cheese sauce.

Can I add additional ingredients to this San Giorgio Mac and Cheese recipe?

Feel free to customize your mac and cheese by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, diced ham, sautéed vegetables, or different types of cheese for extra flavor and variety.

Can I make a vegan version of this dish?

Yes, you can make a vegan version of mac and cheese by using dairy-free cheese, plant-based milk, and vegan butter. There are many delicious vegan cheese alternatives available that melt and taste just like the real thing!