Classic Macaroni and Cheese from Sweet Tomatoes features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a creamy, sharp cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust that delivers a comforting blend of smooth and crunchy textures.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Box grater (for cheese)
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish (casserole dish)
- Oven mitts
- Spoon or ladle (for serving)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Using sharp cheddar cheese with a high fat content ensures a rich and creamy sauce that coats each elbow macaroni perfectly. Whole milk delivers the optimal creaminess and helps prevent the sauce from becoming too runny or too thick. Incorporating both Parmesan cheese and sharp cheddar adds depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste complexity. Breadcrumbs should be fresh or lightly toasted to achieve a golden, crispy topping that contrasts delightfully with the smooth cheese sauce. Your copycat version of Classic Macaroni and Cheese from Sweet Tomatoes will closely mimic the restaurant's beloved balance of creamy and crunchy textures.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbly but not browned.
- Gradually whisk in milk; cook, whisking constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Remove saucepan from heat.
- Stir in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, salt, pepper, ground mustard (if using), and paprika (if using) until smooth.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated.
- Pour macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, toss breadcrumbs with a little melted butter (optional) for extra crunch.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over macaroni and cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until top is golden and bubbly.
- Carefully remove from oven with oven mitts.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Substitution
Classic Macaroni and Cheese from Sweet Tomatoes copycat menu combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich cheddar cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a pleasing textural contrast. You can substitute whole milk with 2% or lactose-free milk if needed, but avoid skim milk to maintain creaminess. If sharp cheddar is unavailable, a blend of sharp and mild cheddar can work well to balance flavor. Breadcrumbs can be replaced with crushed crackers or panko for a different texture in the topping. Ground mustard and paprika are optional ingredients that enhance depth but can be omitted if you prefer a more straightforward cheese flavor.
Tips
Remember to salt the boiling water generously when cooking elbow macaroni to enhance the pasta's flavor. When whisking flour into melted butter, cook just until bubbly to avoid a burnt roux, which can affect the sauce's taste. Gradually adding milk while whisking constantly prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, thickened cheese sauce. You can toss breadcrumbs with melted butter before topping for an extra crispy crust that complements the creamy macaroni beneath.
Nutritions
Classic Macaroni and Cheese provides a rich source of protein and calcium primarily from the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, supporting bone health. The whole milk used in the cheese sauce adds essential vitamins like A and D, along with healthy fats that contribute to satiety. Your meal also offers a substantial amount of carbohydrates from the elbow macaroni, which supply energy for your daily activities. However, this dish is relatively high in calories and sodium, so it's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Storage
Store leftover Classic Macaroni and Cheese in an airtight container in your refrigerator to keep the cheesy sauce fresh and prevent the breadcrumb crust from becoming soggy. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave space for expansion and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven to restore the creamy texture without drying out the pasta.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute sharp cheddar with smoked gouda or Gruyere for a different flavor profile. Using half-and-half or 2% milk instead of whole milk creates a lighter sauce without sacrificing creaminess. For a crunchy topping, try crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs in place of traditional breadcrumbs. Consider adding cooked bacon or caramelized onions to the macaroni mixture to enhance savory notes.
Allergies
Classic Macaroni and Cheese from Sweet Tomatoes contains common allergens such as dairy, found in the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, as well as butter and milk. The use of all-purpose flour may pose a risk for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, and the breadcrumbs typically contain wheat. If you have allergies to milk, gluten, or mustard, it is important to review ingredient labels carefully or consider alternative recipes that accommodate your dietary needs.
Why this recipe?
Sweet Tomatoes' Classic Macaroni and Cheese is beloved for its creamy, rich cheese sauce blended perfectly with tender elbow macaroni, delivering a comforting and nostalgic flavor. The dish uses high-quality cheddar that melts smoothly, creating a luscious texture that enchants every bite. You can enjoy this crowd-pleasing favorite at home by replicating the recipe, allowing for customization with your preferred cheese variety and portion size. Making the copycat version lets you savor the same indulgent taste while controlling ingredients and freshness.