Boston Market is known for its comforting homestyle dishes, and one of its most beloved menu items is the creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly rich mac and cheese. If you love this dish but want to enjoy it from the comfort of your home, you’re in luck! With the right ingredients and technique, you can recreate Boston Market’s signature mac and cheese in your own kitchen.
What’s So Special about Boston Market Mac and Cheese?
While most mac and cheese recipes depend on a roux-based cheese sauce alone, Boston Market’s is creamy to the core with a silky texture. Its secret to intense flavor comes in the form of cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and an easy yet powerful seasoning mix.
Let’s proceed to how you can prepare it at home now!
Homemade Boston Market-Style Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
✔️ 1 pound elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
✔️ 2 cups whole milk
✔️ 1 cup heavy cream
✔️ 2 tablespoons butter
✔️ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
✔️ 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
✔️ 1 cup shredded or diced American cheese
✔️ 1 teaspoon salt
✔️ ½ teaspoon black pepper
✔️ ½ teaspoon dry mustard (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
✔️ ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a touch of smokiness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil.
Add the elbow macaroni and cook al dente, following the package directions.
Drain the pasta and reserve it.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook it for 1-2 minutes, constantly whisking, until it is lightly colored and small bubbles start to form (this is your roux).
Slowly add in the milk and heavy cream, whisking all the while to avoid lumps.
Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Turn the heat to low and gradually add in the cheddar cheese and American cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Season with salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and paprika (if using).
Stir the sauce until all is well combined.
Step 4: Mix Pasta and Sauce
Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring carefully to cover every piece in creamy goodness.
Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes to let the flavors come together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls and serve warm and gooey, just like Boston Market’s. For a little extra indulgence, sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top or add some breadcrumbs for a bit of crunch!
Tips for the Best Boston Market-Style Mac and Cheese
- Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-packaged shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that will impact the texture of the sauce.
- Don’t omit the American cheese – It contributes to the creamy, silky texture that makes this dish so tasty.
- Season to taste – Add a pinch of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for an added kick.
- Reheat with a splash of milk – If you have leftovers, heat them up with a splash of milk to restore the creaminess.
Final Thoughts
Preparing Boston Market-style mac and cheese at home is simpler than you might imagine! With a few essential ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this decadent, creamy, and cheesy comfort food whenever you want it.
