# The Delight of Skillet-Baked Macaroni and Cheese: A Contemporary Twist on a Timeless Classic
As autumn leaves fall and the air turns brisk, nothing quite compares to the comfort of a homemade baked macaroni and cheese, stirring feelings of coziness and reminiscence. This season, many are finding comfort in this rich, cheesy delight, with one recipe standing out: skillet-baked macaroni and cheese. This adaptation blends simplicity and taste, making it a perfect pick for hectic weeknights or intimate gatherings.
## The Inspiration Behind the Dish
The quest for the ultimate macaroni and cheese was sparked by a memorable dining experience at The Smith, where the baked mac and cheese created a lasting impact on the palates of a family. The children vied for the final morsels, leading to an epiphany: homemade macaroni and cheese could be equally satisfying. Yet, traditional recipes often felt labor-intensive, involving various pots and pans and steps that seemed overwhelming for a weeknight meal.
Committed to streamlining the process, the recipe developer set out to craft a version that was not only tasty but also practical for daily life. The outcome is an efficient recipe that preserves the deep flavors of classic macaroni and cheese while reducing the hassle.
## Key Aspects of the Recipe
1. **Raw Pasta**: A distinctive aspect of this recipe is the utilization of uncooked pasta. By soaking the elbow macaroni in hot tap water for merely 10 minutes, boiling is avoided. This technique guarantees that the pasta achieves perfect tenderness during baking, preventing the sogginess that often accompanies pre-cooked noodles.
2. **One-Pan Preparation**: The cheese sauce is prepared directly in an oven-safe skillet, resulting in a single-pan meal that considerably cuts down on cleanup time. This is a game-changer for anyone who dislikes doing dishes after cooking.
3. **Toasted Topping**: For extra crunch and taste, the breadcrumbs are toasted in the skillet prior to being added on top of the macaroni. This not only improves their appearance but also infuses a delightful browned butter flavor.
4. **Adjustable Seasoning**: Although the recipe offers a basic flavor profile with salt, black pepper, cayenne, and nutmeg, it invites customization. Variations can include mustard powder, smoked paprika, minced garlic, or fresh herbs, giving cooks the freedom to modify the dish to their liking.
5. **Cheese Selection**: The recipe recommends a blend of three cheeses—pecorino, gruyère, and sharp white cheddar—each bringing its unique flavors and textures. However, it also allows for adaptability, encouraging exploration with different melting cheeses according to personal taste or what’s available.
6. **Quantity and Serving**: Ideal for a family of four, this recipe can be easily multiplied for larger gatherings, making it an excellent choice for holiday celebrations or potluck events.
7. **Evaporated Milk Alternative**: For a creamier sauce, the recipe offers the option to replace some of the milk with evaporated milk. This pantry staple enhances the sauce’s creaminess, especially when reheated.
## The Recipe: Skillet-Baked Macaroni and Cheese
### Ingredients
– 1/2 cup panko-style breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for toasting crumbs)
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for the sauce)
– Kosher salt
– 1/2 pound dried elbow macaroni
– 1 1/2 cups coarsely grated sharp white cheddar cheese
– 1 cup coarsely grated gruyère or other melty cheese
– 1/2 cup finely grated pecorino romano cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 3 cups milk (or a combination of milk and evaporated milk)
– Black pepper, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg to taste
### Directions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Toast the Breadcrumbs**: In a 10-inch ovenproof skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast until they are golden brown. Set aside.
3. **Soak the Pasta**: Put the uncooked pasta in a bowl and cover with hot tap water for 10 minutes. Drain and remove excess water.
4. **Prepare the Cheese Sauce**: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour, then slowly add the milk, stirring until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, cayenne, and nutmeg. Once thickened, incorporate the cheese until fully melted.
5. **Combine and Bake**: Stir in the drained pasta, top with reserved cheese and toasted breadcrumbs, then bake uncovered for 30 minutes. For a crispier top, broil for an extra minute if preferred.