Mac and Cheese Sourdough Skillet

This creamy mac and cheese sourdough skillet is pure comfort layered with rich cheese and finished with an irresistibly crunchy bread topping. It takes the familiar coziness of classic macaroni and cheese and gives it a rustic upgrade, perfect for family dinners or lazy Sunday lunches.

I made this the first time with odds and ends of cheese and a nearly stale loaf. Now every time I pull out my skillet, I know my family will be circling the table before it is even out of the oven.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni or small pasta: gives the creamy sauce lots of pockets to settle into and is tender but never soggy Choose a variety made from durum wheat for the best bite
• Unsalted butter: keeps the sauce rich without overpowering the cheese Fresh, quality butter makes a difference here
• All-purpose flour: helps create that ultra-smooth base for your cheese sauce Look for unbleached flour for a clean flavor
• Whole milk: ensures the sauce is creamy and luscious Always opt for full fat for ultimate comfort
• Sharp cheddar cheese: brings classic tang and bold cheesy taste Buy a block and grate it yourself for best melt and taste
• Gruyère cheese: adds a touch of nutty elegance and silky texture If unavailable Monterey Jack works as a mild option
• Dijon mustard: lifts up all the other flavors Check the label for a creamy texture and sharp aroma
• Garlic powder: builds savoriness in the sauce Use a fresh jar so the flavor pops
• Salt and black pepper: balance and season every bite Taste as you go for just the right amount
• Sourdough bread: torn into rustic pieces creates the crust with just the right crunch Look for a fresh hearty loaf
• More unsalted butter for the topping: so every piece of bread browns beautifully
• Fresh parsley: gives green freshness and a little color Opt for fresh if possible to brighten things up
• Parmesan cheese: goes over the top so every crispy bite is full of flavor

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Get your oven nice and hot at 200 degrees Celsius or 400 degrees Fahrenheit This ensures the sourdough topping crisps up golden

Boil the Pasta:

Cook macaroni in a big pot of salted water until just al dente You want it to hold its shape and soak up plenty of sauce later Drain and set aside

Make the Roux:

Melt butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat Whisk in flour and stir constantly for a full minute letting it become fragrant and just a shade golden This forms the foundation for your sauce

Add Milk and Thicken:

Slowly pour in whole milk whisking until perfectly smooth Simmer gently for three to four minutes The mixture should thicken to the consistency of heavy cream

Melt in the Cheese:

Reduce the heat to low and add cheddar Gruyère Dijon mustard garlic powder salt and pepper Stir gently until every shred of cheese is melted creating a glossy sauce

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the drained cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce Stir until every piece of pasta is fully coated and nestled in cheesy goodness

Mix the Sourdough Topping:

In a mixing bowl toss sourdough chunks with melted butter parsley if you like and grated Parmesan Every bread piece should be kissed by butter and cheese

Top and Bake:

Spread the sourdough mixture evenly over the cheesy skillet Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for fifteen to eighteen minutes Watch for the topping to turn crisp and deeply golden

Rest and Serve:

Allow the skillet to cool for five minutes before digging in This lets everything set so the sauce stays creamy

Pin

Gruyère is my secret favorite part of this recipe Its melty nuttiness takes this classic up a notch and every time someone raves about the flavor I know it is that little extra piece of love I layered in Often my daughter snags the end pieces of the crispy bread topping right from the skillet before the plates are even served

Storage Tips

Let leftover skillet cool to room temperature then transfer to an airtight container in the fridge It keeps beautifully for up to three days To reheat use a skillet or oven for best texture as the microwave softens the crust

Ingredient Swaps

If Gruyère is not on hand try all cheddar Monterey Jack or even a smoked gouda A day old rustic country bread or even bakery ciabatta works instead of sourdough For a plant based meal use your favorite non dairy butter milk and cheese alternatives

Serving Suggestions

Serve straight from the skillet for maximum impact Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for balance A squeeze of lemon over the top just before serving wakes up the whole dish

History and Tradition

Macaroni and cheese has roots in soul food and homestyle American cuisine Though you can find it everywhere from diners to gourmet restaurants it is that time honored infusion of leftovers with love that keeps it special for me Using sourdough bread in the topping is something I learned from watching my grandmother always finding a way to use every last bit of her baking

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap parsley for fresh chives in spring Add tiny florets of blanched cauliflower or broccoli into the sauce for autumn crunch Include a pinch of cayenne or hot smoked paprika as the days get colder

Pin

For the most satisfying experience serve this mac and cheese skillet straight from the oven to the table Let the aroma bring everyone together for a cozy meal in just one pan

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I substitute the types of cheese?

Yes, you can use Monterey Jack or more cheddar in place of Gruyère, and any sharp cheese you prefer for added flavor.

→ What kind of bread works best for the topping?

Sourdough is ideal for a rustic crunch, but you can use any sturdy bread with a firm crumb for a similar effect.

→ Do I need a cast iron skillet?

While a cast iron skillet gives the best result, any oven-safe skillet or baking dish will work for this preparation.

→ Is this suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Always check your pasta for hidden animal products.

→ How can I enhance the flavor?

Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for extra taste and visual appeal.

→ What side dishes pair well?

Light salads and crisp Chardonnay balance the richness, while roasted vegetables make a hearty complement.