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The main ingredients for this dish are simple but full of flavor. You need elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, and of course, Guinness. The star ingredients are Irish sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese. These cheeses give the dish a rich and creamy texture.

Guinness and Irish Cheddar Mac & Cheese

Elevate your comfort food with the irresistible Guinness and Irish Cheddar Mac & Cheese! This creamy delight features sharp Irish cheddar and the rich flavor of Guinness, creating a mouthwatering experience you won't forget. Follow simple steps to make the perfect cheese sauce and get tips for baking it to golden perfection. Ready to dive into this delicious twist on a classic? Click through to explore the full recipe and savor every bite!

Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 cup Guinness (non-alcoholic beer can work as a substitute for flavor)

2 cups grated Irish sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup grated Gruyère cheese

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until a roux forms and turns slightly golden.

      Add the Wet Ingredients: Gradually whisk in the milk and Guinness, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and is heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

        Incorporate the Cheeses: Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the grated Irish cheddar and Gruyère, onion powder, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.

            Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.

              Add Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. For an extra crispy topping, drizzle a little melted butter over the breadcrumbs if desired.

                Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

                  Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

                    Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4-6