BJ's Couscous Mac and Cheese Recipe

Elevate your comfort food game with BJ's couscous mac and cheese recipe. A tantalizing blend of flavors that's easy to make and utterly delicious!

Bj's Couscous Mac and Cheese

• Publisher: Crisp Recipe
• Cuisine: American
• Category: Main Dish
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 450 calories

Bj's Couscous Mac and Cheese is a unique twist on the mac and cheese delight. This couscous mac and cheese is a creative fusion dish that combines the traditional mac and cheese concept with the addition of couscous, a small, granular pasta.

This blend introduces a different texture and flavor profile to the classic comfort food. The couscous is typically prepared separately and then integrated into a rich and creamy cheese sauce made from a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. The sauce is often seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.

This dish offers a delightful twist on the familiar mac and cheese, providing a unique and satisfying dining experience. The couscous adds a slightly chewy texture, complementing the gooeyness of the cheese.

While the specifics of BJ's version may vary, my simple concept is a delicious departure from the traditional mac and cheese, appealing to those seeking a new take on a beloved classic.

Recipe

Transform your mac and cheese experience with our delectable BJ's-inspired couscous twist! Discover a fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!

Ingredients

• 1 cup couscous
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Method Instructions

1. Cook couscous according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
6. Combine the cooked couscous with the cheese sauce, ensuring the couscous is well coated.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
8. Broil in the oven for a few minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Recipe Video

Bj's Couscous Mac and Cheese

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Recipe Tags: Bj's Couscous Mac and Cheese, Bj's Couscous Mac and Cheese Recipe, Recipe

Servings

To serve BJ's couscous mac and cheese, you can follow these simple steps:

• Portioning: Scoop out individual servings onto plates or into bowls. Use a spatula or spoon to ensure each serving has a good mix of couscous and the creamy cheese sauce.
• Garnish (Optional): Consider garnishing each serving with additional shredded cheese, fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Side Dishes (Optional): Serve the couscous mac and cheese alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. This adds freshness and nutritional variety to the meal.
• Presentation: For an extra touch, you can serve the couscous mac and cheese in individual ramekins or a baking dish. This not only looks appealing but can also help keep the dish warm.
• Enjoy: Once plated and garnished, it's ready to be enjoyed! Serve immediately while it's still warm and the cheese is gooey.

Note that, these are general serving suggestions, and you can customize based on personal preferences.

Tips

1. Couscous Texture: Cook the couscous to the recommended time on the package to achieve the desired texture. Overcooking can result in a mushy consistency.
2. Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your preferred flavor. Cheddar and mozzarella create a classic blend, but adding a touch of parmesan or gruyere can add complexity.
3. Seasoning: Don't forget to season the cheese sauce adequately. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper levels to suit your preference.
4. Herbs and Spices: Consider adding herbs or spices to enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the dish.
5. Presentation: If serving for a special occasion, consider baking the dish for a few minutes before serving to achieve a golden, bubbly crust on top.
6. Customization: Feel free to add extras like cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions to personalize the dish.
7. Consistency of Sauce: If the cheese sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency. If it's too thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer to thicken.
8. Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Ingredient Substitutes

1. Couscous Substitute:
   • Alternative small pasta shapes like orzo or small shells can replace couscous.
   • Quinoa can provide a different texture and added protein.
2. Cheese Substitute:
   • Experiment with different cheeses based on your taste preferences. Gouda, fontina, or Swiss can offer unique flavors.
   • For a lighter option, consider using a blend of part-skim or low-fat cheeses.
3. Flour Substitute:
   • If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
4. Milk Substitute:
   • Almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk can replace regular milk for a lactose-free or vegan alternative.
   • For a richer flavor, use half-and-half or heavy cream.
5. Butter Substitute:
   • Olive oil or coconut oil can be used as a substitute for butter in the sauce.
6. Seasonings:
   • Customize the seasoning with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil based on your taste preferences.
   • Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a hint of spice.
7. Add-Ins:
   • Customize the dish with additional ingredients like cooked and crumbled sausage, diced tomatoes, or sautéed vegetables.

Remarks

Indulge in the rich harmony of textures and flavors! Try BJ's couscous mac and cheese today and savor a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Your taste buds will thank you!