Save A creamy, spicy twist on classic macaroni and cheese featuring tangy pickles and a kick of sriracha for extra flavor.
The first time I made this sriracha pickle mac and cheese I was craving something comforting but bold and was thrilled by how the tart pickles and the smooth heat worked together. My family now requests it whenever we want to liven up pasta night!
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 500 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 200 g (2 cups) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 50 g (½ cup) shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tbsp cream cheese, 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 2–3 tbsp sriracha sauce (to taste), ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp smoked paprika, salt and black pepper to taste
- Pickles & Toppings: 80 g (½ cup) finely chopped dill pickles, 2 tbsp pickle brine, 50 g (½ cup) panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for topping), 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Roux:
- In a large saucepan melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute whisking constantly.
- Thicken Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk ensuring no lumps remain. Cook stirring until slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add Cheese:
- Lower the heat. Add cheddar mozzarella and cream cheese stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season:
- Stir in Dijon mustard sriracha garlic powder smoked paprika salt and pepper. Taste and adjust sriracha for heat preference.
- Add Pickles:
- Add chopped pickles and pickle brine stirring to combine.
- Combine Pasta:
- Add drained macaroni to the sauce stirring until well coated.
- Broil Prep:
- Preheat the broiler (grill).
- Toast Breadcrumbs:
- In a small skillet melt 1 tbsp butter. Add panko breadcrumbs and toast until golden.
- Broil Mac and Cheese:
- Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish sprinkle with toasted panko and broil for 2–3 minutes until topping is crisp.
- Finish:
- Sprinkle with chives before serving if desired.
Save My kids giggle every time they scoop up the noodles covered in crunchy pickle topping, and it has quickly become a quirky comfort food we love sharing on movie nights.
Required Tools
Large pot, saucepan, whisk, baking dish, small skillet, broiler (grill), measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese milk butter), gluten (pasta flour panko) and mustard. Check pickle cheese and sriracha labels for additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 540 Protein: 19 g Total Fat: 26 g Carbohydrates: 55 g (per serving)
Save Serve this creamy spicy mac and cheese with a crisp citrusy white wine or a cold lager for a complete meal. It's perfect for spicing up a weeknight dinner!
Recipe Questions
- → How spicy is this macaroni dish?
The level of heat depends on the sriracha amount. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to taste for extra spiciness.
- → Can I use different types of pickles?
Yes, experiment with bread-and-butter pickles for sweeter notes, or use extra dill pickles for a strong tang.
- → What cheeses work well in this dish?
Sharp cheddar and mozzarella are ideal, but Monterey Jack can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
- → Is it vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, the dish contains no meat and uses cheese, milk, and butter as primary ingredients.
- → How do I get a crispy topping?
Toast panko crumbs with butter in a skillet, then broil the finished dish until the topping is golden and crisp.
- → What can I serve this with?
Pair with a fresh green salad, citrusy white wine, or a cold lager for balance and refreshment.