When it comes to comfort food, Gordon Ramsay excels at transforming even the simplest dishes into something special. One dish that he has perfected is mac and cheese. So, how does Gordon Ramsay make the best mac and cheese? His version stands out not only because of the premium ingredients like sharp cheddar and parmesan, but also due to the creative twist of adding cauliflower for extra texture and nutrition. In this article, you’ll learn how Gordon Ramsay makes the best mac and cheese, step by step, and discover a few ways you can elevate the dish even further.
What Makes Gordon Ramsay’s Mac and Cheese Different?
First of all, how Gordon Ramsay makes the best mac and cheese starts with his exceptional choice of ingredients. Rather than relying on just any cheese, Ramsay uses a blend of sharp cheddar and parmesan, which gives the dish both a creamy and tangy flavor. What’s more, he incorporates cauliflower into the recipe, adding a unique texture while boosting its nutritional value.
Additionally, unlike many traditional mac and cheese recipes that use heavy cream, Ramsay prefers to use evaporated milk. This not only creates a smooth sauce but also keeps it lighter and less heavy. If you’re looking for more ways to use cheese creatively in your cooking, check out this bread cheese guide for ideas on how to pair different cheeses with meals.
Ingredients for Gordon Ramsay’s Mac and Cheese
To recreate Gordon Ramsay’s best mac and cheese at home, you’ll need the following ingredients. These components are simple, yet when combined, they create a rich and delicious dish:
- 2 cups of elbow macaroni – The pasta’s shape helps hold the creamy sauce well.
- 2 tablespoons of butter – Adds richness and creates the base for the cheese sauce.
- 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese – The tangy sharpness of the cheddar gives the dish its bold flavor.
- ½ cup of parmesan cheese – Parmesan enhances the dish with its salty, umami richness.
- 1 cup of evaporated milk – Used instead of heavy cream for a smoother, lighter sauce.
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard – This adds a subtle, complex flavor to the sauce without overpowering the cheese.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Basic seasonings that bring out the best in the other ingredients.
- Optional: Cauliflower – Ramsay often adds cauliflower to boost the texture and nutrition.
For more inspiration on different cheeses, you might also want to explore this guide on the best cheese for bread. It provides useful insights into choosing the right cheese for different dishes.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Gordon Ramsay’s Mac and Cheese
1. Cook the Pasta
To begin with, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it until it’s al dente—about 8 to 10 minutes. Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook once combined with the cheese sauce. After that, drain the pasta and set it aside. This step ensures that the pasta will maintain its texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Next, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the Dijon mustard and evaporated milk. After that, gradually add the sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly. The constant stirring helps prevent any lumps and ensures that the cheese melts smoothly into a creamy sauce. This is a crucial step in how Gordon Ramsay makes the best mac and cheese, as the sauce must be silky and lump-free.
3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Once the cheese sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta into the sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated. Be sure to mix well so that the sauce evenly covers each piece of pasta. At this stage, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the flavors really come together, and you’ll start to see how Gordon Ramsay makes the best mac and cheese taste so delicious.
4. Optional: Add Cauliflower
If you’d like to add a healthy twist to the dish, you can include steamed or roasted cauliflower. Gordon Ramsay often adds cauliflower to his mac and cheese for added texture and nutrition. Not only does this give the dish a slight crunch, but it also makes it a little lighter. You can simply mix the cooked cauliflower into the pasta and cheese sauce for a healthier variation.
5. Optional: Bake for a Crispy Topping
If you prefer a baked version, you can transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a casserole dish. Then, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. Baking the mac and cheese adds a delightful contrast between the creamy interior and the crispy topping, making the dish even more satisfying.
For more baked mac and cheese inspiration, you can check out this recipe for old-fashioned baked mac and cheese, which offers additional techniques to achieve the perfect crispy finish.
Why Cauliflower is Ramsay’s Secret Weapon
One of the most intriguing elements of how Gordon Ramsay makes the best mac and cheese is his inclusion of cauliflower. While not typically found in traditional mac and cheese recipes, cauliflower adds a delightful texture and nutritional boost to the dish. First of all, cauliflower has a subtle flavor that blends perfectly with the richness of the cheese sauce. Additionally, it lightens up the overall dish, preventing it from feeling overly heavy.
Moreover, incorporating cauliflower is a clever way to sneak more vegetables into the meal without sacrificing flavor. If you want to explore more creative ways to use cauliflower in your mac and cheese, check out this cauliflower mac and cheese recipe, which adds even more variety to this classic dish.
Customizing Ramsay’s Mac and Cheese: Variations
Although Gordon Ramsay’s mac and cheese is already outstanding, there are many ways to customize the recipe to fit your tastes. Here are a few popular variations that you can try:
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist. The saltiness of the bacon complements the richness of the cheese sauce.
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: For a little extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This variation is ideal for spice lovers who want to add heat to the dish.
- Seafood Mac and Cheese: If you’re feeling indulgent, try adding lobster or shrimp to the recipe. These seafood additions elevate the dish to a gourmet level.
- Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese: Swap out regular pasta for gluten-free options to accommodate dietary restrictions.
No matter how you customize it, how Gordon Ramsay makes the best mac and cheese can serve as the perfect base for experimentation. You can adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions: Main Course or Side Dish?
Mac and cheese is traditionally served as a side dish, but Gordon Ramsay’s mac and cheese is hearty enough to stand on its own as a main course. However, if you’d like to serve it as part of a larger meal, consider pairing it with the following:
- Grilled Meats: Chicken, steak, or pork chops work wonderfully alongside the creamy mac and cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the mac and cheese with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus for a balanced meal.
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese sauce.
For more meal pairing ideas, you can also explore these ground beef recipes, which can complement mac and cheese well.
FAQs About Gordon Ramsay’s Mac and Cheese
What type of cheese does Gordon Ramsay use?
Ramsay uses a combination of sharp cheddar and parmesan in his mac and cheese. The sharp cheddar gives the dish a tangy flavor, while the parmesan adds a savory, umami-rich depth.
Can I make Gordon Ramsay’s mac and cheese gluten-free?
Yes! To make Gordon Ramsay’s mac and cheese gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. The cheese sauce remains the same and is still rich and creamy.
How do I prevent mac and cheese from becoming dry when baking it?
To avoid dryness, make sure to undercook the pasta slightly before baking. Also, add a bit more cheese sauce before placing it in the oven to ensure that the mac and cheese stays creamy.
What are some good pairings for mac and cheese?
Mac and cheese pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. These options provide a balanced contrast to the richness of the dish.
Can I prepare Gordon Ramsay’s mac and cheese in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare Gordon Ramsay’s mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Healthier Substitutions for Gordon Ramsay’s Mac and Cheese
If you want to enjoy Gordon Ramsay’s mac and cheese but with fewer calories, consider the following substitutions:
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap out regular elbow macaroni for whole wheat pasta to increase fiber and nutrients.
- Low-Fat Cheese: Use reduced-fat cheddar and parmesan to cut down on calories while still keeping the flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Add spinach, broccoli, or peas for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals.
- Dairy-Free Cheese: If you have dietary restrictions, you can use dairy-free cheese and almond milk to create a plant-based version of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing and reheating Gordon Ramsay’s mac and cheese is easy, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
- Storage: Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk and warm the dish on the stovetop or in the microwave to restore its creamy texture.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze the dish, use a freezer-safe container and store it for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion: Why Gordon Ramsay’s Mac and Cheese is Worth the Hype
In conclusion, how Gordon Ramsay makes the best mac and cheese is all about using high-quality ingredients like sharp cheddar and parmesan, while also adding a few unique twists such as cauliflower. Whether you’re making it as a main course or as a side dish, this version of mac and cheese is sure to impress family and friends alike.
For more ideas on how to elevate your cooking with cheese, explore this bread cheese guide for inspiration.
By following how Gordon Ramsay makes the best mac and cheese, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!