Leroy Butler Mac and Cheese Recipe
Discover the magic of Leroy Butler's mac and cheese recipe! Indulge in a symphony of cheeses and crunchy goodness. Your tastebuds will thank you!
- Publisher: Crisp Recipe
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Main Dish
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 8
- Calories: 300 calories
Leroy Butler Mac and Cheese
Leroy Butler's mac and cheese is a culinary masterpiece that transcends the ordinary. This beloved recipe, crafted by the former Green Bay Packers star, is a testament to his prowess both on and off the football field. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 30 minutes, it's a relatively quick and straightforward dish that delivers on flavor and comfort.
The combination of sharp cheddar and colby jack cheeses creates a symphony of richness, while the addition of paprika adds a subtle but distinctive kick. Leroy Butler's mac and cheese strikes the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and a satisfying crunch, thanks to a topping of golden-brown breadcrumbs.
This particular recipe yields approximately eight servings, making it ideal for family gatherings, game nights, or any occasion where a hearty and delicious dish is in demand.
This American classic, firmly rooted in comfort food territory, showcases Butler's culinary expertise beyond the football field. Its warm, gooey texture and well-balanced flavors make it a go-to recipe for those seeking a timeless, crowd-pleasing mac and cheese experience.
Recipe
Dive into the ultimate comfort food experience with Leroy Butler's Mac and Cheese! A symphony of cheeses and a crispy topping await your taste buds. Unleash the cheesy magic now!
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups colby jack cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Method Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes to cook the flour.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar and colby jack cheeses to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all the pasta is well coated.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy Leroy Butler's flavorful and comforting mac and cheese!
Recipe Video
This is a video about Leroy Butler Mac and Cheese.
Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 259 reviews.
Recipe Tags: Leroy Butler Mac and Cheese, Leroy Butler Mac and Cheese Recipe, Recipe
Servings
To serve Leroy Butler's mac and cheese, follow these simple steps to ensure a delightful dining experience:
- Portioning: Using a spatula or serving spoon, scoop generous portions of the mac and cheese onto individual plates or into serving bowls.
- Garnish (Optional): Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dash of additional paprika on top for a touch of color and added flavor.
- Accompaniments: Leroy Butler's mac and cheese can be a standalone dish, but you can enhance the meal by serving it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a protein of your choice, such as grilled chicken or sausage.
- Presentation: Arrange the plates or bowls neatly on the dining table. The golden-brown breadcrumb topping and the creamy cheese sauce create an inviting visual appeal.
- Enjoy: Encourage diners to savor each bite, appreciating the creamy texture and harmonious blend of cheeses. The crunchy breadcrumb topping provides a satisfying contrast, making every forkful a delightful experience.
Whether you're serving it at a family gathering, a casual dinner, or a game day celebration, Leroy Butler's mac and cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with good company and perhaps some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips
- Cheese Selection: Experiment with different types of sharp cheddar and colby jack cheeses to tailor the flavor to your preference. You might try aged cheddar for a sharper taste or a blend of cheeses for added complexity.
- Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Add a pinch more paprika for a spicier kick or experiment with a dash of garlic powder for extra depth.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose your favorite type of breadcrumbs for the topping, whether they're plain, seasoned, or even panko for a lighter and crispier texture.
- Protein Additions: Customize the recipe by incorporating cooked and diced bacon, ham, or shredded chicken for a protein-packed variation.
- Texture: For a contrast in textures, consider mixing in some shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese along with the cheddar and colby jack. This can add a gooey, stringy quality to the dish.
- Baking Dish Size: Use a baking dish that allows for a good balance between surface area and depth. This ensures an even cooking of the mac and cheese and a desirable golden-brown crust.
- Preheating the Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve an even cook and golden-brown topping.
- Resting Time: Allow the mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
- Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven or microwave. To maintain the crispy texture of the breadcrumb topping, consider briefly using the oven or toaster oven.
- Creative Serving Ideas: Serve Leroy Butler's mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a stylish presentation at gatherings or events.
Ingredient Substitutes
Even though Leroy Butler's mac and cheese recipe is a tried-and-true classic, you can certainly experiment with ingredient substitutions to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some potential substitutes:
- Cheese: Instead of sharp cheddar and colby jack, you can try other cheese varieties like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a creamy goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Milk: Whole milk is used in the original recipe, but you can opt for 2% or skim milk if you prefer a lighter version. Non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or soy milk can also be used for a lactose-free option.
- Butter: If you're looking to reduce the butter content, consider using olive oil or a butter substitute.
- Flour: To make the recipe gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Pasta: Feel free to choose a pasta shape other than elbow macaroni. Penne, rotini, or cavatappi are excellent alternatives.
- Breadcrumb Topping: Use crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips for a different texture on top.
- Seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices. Thyme, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper can add unique flavors to the dish.
- Protein: Customize your mac and cheese by adding cooked and diced chicken, ham, or bacon for a protein boost.
Remarks
Savor the rich legacy of Leroy Butler's mac and cheese – a culinary touchdown of flavor and comfort. Get ready to create lasting memories with each delicious bite. Enjoy your cheesy adventure!