Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, swapping cheddar for Gruyère or adding mozzarella can enhance creaminess and flavor complexity.

How do I make the topping crunchy?

Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and bake atop the mac and cheese until golden for a crisp finish.

Yes, it adds a tangy depth complementing the cheese sauce and fresh dill, balancing richness with brightness.

Absolutely, the dish is delicious served immediately after mixing without the optional baked topping.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced pickled jalapeños for extra heat and flavor complexity.

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

This viral dill twist on classic mac and cheese quickly became a family favorite with its unique tangy flavor and creamy texture.

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

Step 1:: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) if baking with topping.
Step 2:: Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3:: In a large saucepan melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 4:: Gradually whisk in the milk and cook stirring constantly until slightly thickened (about 3 4 minutes).
Step 5:: Lower heat and add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
Step 6:: Add Dijon mustard garlic powder pickle juice chopped pickles and fresh dill. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7:: Fold in the cooked macaroni until fully coated with the sauce.
Step 8:: (Optional) For a crunchy 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.
Step 9:: Garnish with extra chopped dill and serve immediately.

This dish brings back great family moments especially when served with crispy dill pickle chips for added crunch.

Serve with a side of crispy dill pickle chips for crunch.

Large pot, Saucepan, Whisk, Baking dish (optional for topping), Cheese grater

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

This recipe is perfect for adding a unique twist to a beloved classic. Enjoy the bright dill flavor that elevates every bite.

→ Can I use different cheeses?: Yes, swapping cheddar for Gruyère or adding mozzarella can enhance creaminess and flavor complexity.
→ How do I make the topping crunchy?: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and bake atop the mac and cheese until golden for a crisp finish.
→ Is the dill pickle juice important?: Yes, it adds a tangy depth complementing the cheese sauce and fresh dill, balancing richness with brightness.
→ Can I prepare it without baking?: Absolutely, the dish is delicious served immediately after mixing without the optional baked topping.
→ How can I add a spicy kick?: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced pickled jalapeños for extra heat and flavor complexity.