Can I substitute other cheeses for cheddar?

Yes, Gruyère or mozzarella work well for a different creaminess and flavor depth.

How do I add a crunchy topping?

Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and bake on top until golden and crisp.

Finely chopped dill pickles and pickle juice provide a bright, tangy kick.

Yes, add cayenne pepper or sliced pickled jalapeños for extra heat.

Yes, it uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients like cheeses and pasta without meat.

A large pot for boiling pasta, saucepan for sauce, whisk, and optional baking dish.

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

This recipe quickly became a family favorite after I added dill pickles on a whim and was surprised by the delicious zing they added.

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

Preheat:: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) if baking with topping.
Cook Pasta:: Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make Roux:: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Add Milk:: Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
Add Cheese:: Lower heat and add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
Mix Pickle Flavor:: Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, pickle juice, chopped pickles, and fresh dill. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine:: Fold in the cooked macaroni until fully coated with the sauce.
Optional 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.
Garnish and Serve:: Garnish with extra chopped dill and serve immediately.

This dish always brings my family together especially during casual dinners when everyone asks for seconds.

Serve with a side of crispy dill pickle chips for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Large pot, saucepan, whisk, baking dish (optional), cheese grater.

Contains dairy (milk cheese butter) and gluten (pasta flour breadcrumbs). Always check pickle and cheese labels for potential allergens or additives.

This pickle mac and cheese is the perfect blend of classic comfort and bold flavor guaranteed to delight your taste buds.

→ Can I substitute other cheeses for cheddar?: Yes, Gruyère or mozzarella work well for a different creaminess and flavor depth.
→ How do I add a crunchy topping?: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and bake on top until golden and crisp.
→ What gives the dish its tangy flavor?: Finely chopped dill pickles and pickle juice provide a bright, tangy kick.
→ Can I make it spicier?: Yes, add cayenne pepper or sliced pickled jalapeños for extra heat.
→ Is this suitable for vegetarians?: Yes, it uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients like cheeses and pasta without meat.
→ What tools are needed for preparation?: A large pot for boiling pasta, saucepan for sauce, whisk, and optional baking dish.