The moment you unearth a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness, nostalgia washes over you—especially if it’s Boston Market Mac and Cheese. I still recall the first time I dived into that comforting dish, its richness enveloping every bite with the perfect blend of sharp cheddar and gooey mozzarella. You know that feeling when you want something homemade yet crave a hint of indulgence? Well, this copycat version will have you feeling like a culinary hero in your own kitchen!
After a long day of juggling responsibilities, nothing beats the simplicity and satisfaction in whipping up this delightful recipe. You might even find that you have all the ingredients tucked away in your pantry, just waiting for your next culinary adventure. This creamy concoction dazzles with flavor but requires only a handful of steps, making it the perfect choice for a cozy night in or to impress guests without breaking a sweat. So, grab your utensils and let’s dive into this delightful dish that turns a busy weeknight into a heartwarming gathering!
Why You'll Love This Boston Market Mac and Cheese
- This Boston Market Mac and Cheese is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a comforting meal in just 40 minutes.
- The rich flavors of sharp cheddar and gooey mozzarella create a delightful cheese explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Its versatility means you can enjoy it as a main dish, a side, or even add your favorite protein for a complete meal.
- Plus, its golden, bubbly top makes it visually appealing, making it perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
Boston Market Mac and Cheese Ingredients
Get ready to create a comforting dish that rivals your favorite restaurant!
For the Pasta
• Elbow macaroni – a classic choice that perfectly holds the cheese sauce.
For the Cheese Sauce
• Unsalted butter – adds richness and a velvety texture to the sauce.
• All-purpose flour – helps thicken the sauce for that luxurious creaminess.
• Milk – whole milk gives the best flavor, but you can use 2% if needed.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – provides that iconic, tangy cheese flavor essential for Boston Market Mac and Cheese.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – adds a gooey, stretchy quality to the dish.
• Garlic powder – enhances flavor with a hint of aromatic warmth.
• Onion powder – adds depth without the intensity of fresh onions.
• Salt and pepper – to taste; adjusting these enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
How to Make Boston Market Mac and Cheese
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
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Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Make sure the butter is completely melted before moving onto the next step for that luscious texture.
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Whisk in the Flour: Add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to the melted butter, whisking continuously for about 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and smooth. This is your roux, which thickens the cheese sauce beautifully!
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Add the Milk: Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking vigorously. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Look for a luscious, velvety consistency.
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Incorporate the Cheese: Stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, mixing until they completely melt and blend into a smooth sauce. This is where the magic happens—watch it transform!
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Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure all the flavors meld together, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
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Combine with Pasta: Gently fold the creamy cheese sauce into the cooked elbow macaroni until every piece is well-coated. This is the moment where you know you’ve created something special!
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Bake to Perfection: Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until golden and bubbly on top. You’ll love the crispy edges that form!
Optional: Garnish with breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy topping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Boston Market Mac and Cheese?
Nothing complements the creamy, cheesy goodness of this dish quite like the right sides and beverages to complete your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast to the smooth mac and cheese, perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a fresh, vibrant touch and balances the richness with its mild flavor.
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BBQ Grilled Chicken: The smoky, savory notes from grilled chicken bring a delightful contrast, making for a satisfying dinner plate.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons offers a refreshing crunch that complements the dish beautifully.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture and a refreshing bite that balances the decadence of the macaroni.
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Apple Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with warm apple pie, a comforting dessert that pairs wonderfully with the richness of mac and cheese.
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Lemonade: A chilled glass of lemonade offers a zesty, refreshing contrast to the creamy dish, perfect for lifting your spirits.
With these pairings, you’ll create a meal that is not just satisfying, but indulgently delightful!
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Boston Market Mac and Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can cook the elbow macaroni and prepare the cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring your weeknight dinner comes together effortlessly. Simply cool the macaroni and sauce completely before combining them and transferring to a baking dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. This way, you’ll enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite just as delicious as freshly made!
Boston Market Mac and Cheese Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
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Extra Cheesy: Add an additional cup of cheese, like gouda or pepper jack, for an even richer experience that oozes decadence.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in cooked broccoli or spinach for a nutritious touch that adds vibrant color and vitamins.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat level and jazz up the flavor profile.
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Creamy Variance: Substitute half the milk with cream for a luscious sauce that takes indulgence to new heights.
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Bacon Bliss: Mix in crispy, crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a fragrant hint, transforming this dish into an aromatic delight.
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Smoky Flavor: Try adding smoked paprika or smoked cheddar cheese for that irresistible depth that keeps you asking for more.
How to Store and Freeze Boston Market Mac and Cheese
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick meal, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your Boston Market Mac and Cheese, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 2 months, but let it cool completely first.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until heated through. Stir occasionally for even warming.
Serving Suggestions: For an exciting twist, consider serving it with your favorite protein or a side salad to elevate your meal!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Boston Market Mac and Cheese, ensure you cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Always whisk the flour in the melted butter for about a minute to create a smooth roux, which is essential for thickening the cheese sauce.
- Gradually adding the milk while whisking prevents lumps from forming and results in a creamy texture.
- Bake the dish at 350°F (175°C) for exactly 20 minutes to achieve that perfect golden, bubbly finish on top.
Boston Market Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cheese for Boston Market Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! For the perfect mac and cheese, I recommend using a sharp cheddar cheese for that iconic flavor, paired with mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey texture. If you want to experiment, try mixing in some smoked gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist!
How should I store leftover Boston Market Mac and Cheese?
After enjoying your delicious dish, place any leftovers in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat, just add a splash of milk to restore the creaminess before popping it in the microwave!
Can I freeze Boston Market Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can! For freezing, make sure to let your mac and cheese cool completely. Then, transfer it into a freezer-safe container or use individual servings in freezer bags, and it will last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes for a perfect reheating.
What if I encounter lumps in my cheese sauce?
Very! If you find lumps in your cheese sauce, don’t panic; it happens to the best of us! First, ensure you’re whisking continuously while adding the milk to prevent this. If lumps form, try using an immersion blender to smooth it out. This will help create that silky, creamy texture we all love.
Is Boston Market Mac and Cheese suitable for people with dairy allergies?
While traditional Boston Market Mac and Cheese contains dairy, you can modify the recipe for dietary needs! Substitute the milk and cheeses with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese. Be sure to check product labels for allergens to ensure safety, especially if serving to others.
Boston Market Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to the melted butter, whisking continuously for about 1 minute until smooth.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking vigorously until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until completely melted.
- Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Gently fold the creamy cheese sauce into the cooked elbow macaroni until well-coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
