What cheeses work best for this dish?

Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack provide a creamy, flavorful base. You can also try Gruyère or mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Can I bake this with a crunchy topping?

Yes, mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and baking for 10-12 minutes offers a golden, crunchy finish.

Chopped dill pickles and pickle juice add a tangy, zesty brightness that balances the rich cheese sauce.

Add a pinch of cayenne or sliced pickled jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with 25 minutes cooking time, totaling 40 minutes.

A creamy, tangy macaroni and cheese infused with the bright flavor of dill pickles—an irresistible comfort food with a zesty kick.

I first discovered this dish when craving something familiar yet exciting, and it instantly became a family favorite.

Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 170 g (6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese shredded, 85 g (3 oz) Monterey Jack cheese shredded, 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp garlic powder, Salt and black pepper to taste
Pickle Twist: 120 g (about 1 cup) dill pickles finely chopped, 60 ml (1/4 cup) dill pickle juice, 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Topping (optional): 60 g (1/2 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted

Step 1:: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) if baking with topping.
Step 2:: Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3:: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 4:: Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
Step 5:: Lower heat and add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
Step 6:: Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pickle juice, chopped pickles, and fresh dill. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7:: Fold in the cooked macaroni until fully coated with the sauce.
Step 8:: (Optional) For a crunchy topping, mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese in a baking dish. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9:: Garnish with extra chopped dill and serve immediately.

Sharing this dish at family dinners always sparks conversation and delightful smiles.

Serve with crispy dill pickle chips or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or swap cheddar for Gruyère cheese for a different flavor profile.

This pickle mac and cheese is a perfect blend of comfort and zest, ideal for any occasion.

→ What cheeses work best for this dish?: Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack provide a creamy, flavorful base. You can also try Gruyère or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
→ Can I bake this with a crunchy topping?: Yes, mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and baking for 10-12 minutes offers a golden, crunchy finish.
→ How do the pickles affect the flavor?: Chopped dill pickles and pickle juice add a tangy, zesty brightness that balances the rich cheese sauce.
→ Is there a way to make it spicier?: Add a pinch of cayenne or sliced pickled jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.
→ What is the preparation and cooking time?: Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with 25 minutes cooking time, totaling 40 minutes.