Name: Indulgent Guinness Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Mini Penne Pasta (can substitute with elbow macaroni); 2 tablespoons Butter (for Sauce and Topping) (either salted or unsalted); 2 tablespoons Flour (all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour); 2 cups Whole Milk (can substitute with 2% milk or a milk alternative); 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg (can be omitted); 1/2 cup Crème Fraîche (optional) (or sour cream); 1 cup Smoked Cheddar Cheese (can use regular cheddar or Gruyère); 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (or white cheddar); 1 cup Guinness (or Stout Beer) (avoid light beers); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon White Pepper (regular black pepper works as well); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (can substitute with regular breadcrumbs); 1 tablespoon Thyme (freshly chopped or dried); 2 cloves Garlic (preferably fresh)

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There’s a unique thrill in creating a dish that transforms a beloved classic into something extraordinary. That’s exactly what my creamy Guinness mac and cheese does—it marries gooey, melted cheeses with the deep, rich flavor of stout beer. Picture this: the comforting aromas wafting through your kitchen as the cheesy goodness bubbles away, drawing everyone in for a taste.

Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this indulgent pasta dish is as simple to make as it is delightful to eat. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team or hosting friends, this crowd-pleaser elevates the familiar comfort food experience, combining richness with a gourmet twist. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the recipe easily adapts for different cheeses or beers, ensuring there’s something for everyone. So, grab your ingredients and let’s turn a comforting favorite into a new family tradition!

Why is Guinness Mac and Cheese a Must-Try?

Creamy goodness: The combination of melted cheeses creates a rich, velvety sauce that envelops each pasta piece.
Unique flavor twist: The addition of Guinness introduces a depth that elevates this classic comfort food to gourmet status.
Easy to customize: Modify ingredients to suit your taste—switch up cheeses or experiment with different stout varieties!
Quick and fuss-free: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under an hour, giving you more time to enjoy.
Crowd-pleasing delight: Whether for family gatherings or game night, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table! It pairs beautifully with dishes like a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Guinness Mac and Cheese Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Mini Penne Pasta – A perfect choice as it holds the creamy cheese sauce well; can substitute with elbow macaroni.

For the Cheese Sauce
• Butter (for Sauce and Topping) – Adds richness; you can use either salted or unsalted butter.
• Flour – Creates a roux to thicken the sauce; all-purpose flour works best, but gluten-free flour is a great substitute.
• Whole Milk – Gives the sauce its creamy texture; for a lighter option, consider 2% milk or a milk alternative.
• Nutmeg – Enhances flavor with warmth; can be omitted if you prefer a simpler taste.
• Crème Fraîche (optional) – Adds tanginess and creaminess; can be swapped for sour cream or left out.
• Smoked Cheddar Cheese – Imparts a rich flavor; regular cheddar or Gruyère makes a tasty alternative.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides robust flavor; white cheddar is another good option.
• Guinness (or Stout Beer) – Introduces depth; avoid light beers for the best results.
• Salt and White Pepper – Essential for seasoning the sauce; regular black pepper works well too.

For the Topping
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Adds a delightful crunch; may substitute with regular breadcrumbs if needed.
• Thyme – Infuses aromatic flavor; freshly chopped or dried thyme both work well.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall aroma; fresh garlic is preferred, but you can skip it for a milder taste.

This Guinness Mac and Cheese is a dish your family will love, and these ingredients will help you create that creamy, indulgent experience everyone craves!

How to Make Guinness Mac and Cheese

Prepare the Béchamel: Heat whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. In another saucepan, melt butter; whisk in flour for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and pale. Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Mix in the Flavors: Add nutmeg to the béchamel, then take it off the heat. Stir in crème fraîche, smoked cheddar, and sharp cheddar cheese until smooth and melted together. This gives a luscious, creamy base for your pasta.
Combine Pasta and Cheese: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish. Toss the cooked mini penne pasta in the cheese sauce until every piece is well-coated, ensuring no pasta is left behind in flavor!
Prepare Topping: In a sauté pan, melt some butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant, then stir in the panko breadcrumbs until they are lightly toasted, creating a golden color and crunchy texture.
Bake it Up: Sprinkle the crunchy breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Optional: For an extra twist, drizzle with a little more Guinness before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Guinness Mac and Cheese

Fridge: Store leftover Guinness mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, ensuring it gets heated through without drying out.

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the Guinness mac and cheese in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What to Serve with Guinness Mac and Cheese?

Pair your comforting plate of mac and cheese with dishes that will enhance the cozy experience and balance out the richness.

Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness adds a satisfying crunch while complementing the creamy texture of the mac and cheese. Nothing beats dipping a warm slice into the cheesy sauce!
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish, making each bite more enjoyable.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized flavors and slightly bitter notes of roasted Brussels sprouts cut through the richness, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies all cravings.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These crispy, spicy bites introduce a fun element to the meal, creating a delightful balance between creaminess and heat that keeps it exciting.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp adds a sweet touch that pairs beautifully with the savory mac and cheese while giving you a taste of homey nostalgia.
Creamy Tomato Soup: The comforting warmth of this soup creates a nostalgic match with your mac and cheese, ensuring you’ll reach for that second helping.
Craft Beer: Pairing with a dark lager or stout mimics the flavor profiles of the mac and cheese, enriching your meal experience and deepening the flavors.

Guinness Mac and Cheese Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds!

Beer Swap: Use a different stout or porter for unique flavors; each beer imparts its own character to the dish.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, gouda, or even blue cheese for a bold twist. Each type offers a delightful taste adventure!
Gluten-Free: Replace the mini penne with gluten-free pasta and use almond flour for the roux, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comfort dish.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in sautéed onions, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor, creating a delightful veggie medley.
Spice it Up: For a kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some cooked chorizo, transforming the dish into a zesty delight.
Creamy Swaps: For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk while still keeping it creamy.
Nutty Flavor: Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a nutty flavor and extra depth, perfect for those who adore plant-based dining.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or parsley in place of thyme for a refreshing herbaceous note that brightens up each bite.

Expert Tips for Guinness Mac and Cheese

Prevent Curdling: Avoid boiling the cheese sauce after adding the cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
Warm the Guinness: Always warm your Guinness before adding it to the sauce; this enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven, preventing mushiness in your Guinness Mac and Cheese.
Adjusting for Make-Ahead: If you prepare the dish in advance, plan for longer baking time when reheating from the refrigerator to ensure it heats through thoroughly.
Crunchy Topping: To achieve a golden crust, make sure to toast the panko breadcrumbs lightly before adding them to the mac and cheese.

Guinness Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta works best for Guinness mac and cheese?
Mini penne pasta is my go-to for this recipe because its shape holds the creamy cheese sauce beautifully. However, feel free to substitute it with elbow macaroni or another small pasta shape, as they work wonderfully too!

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftover Guinness mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup that can soggy your creamy goodness.

Can I freeze Guinness mac and cheese?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. I recommend dividing it into individual portions for easy reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat my Guinness mac and cheese?
Reheating is a breeze! Cover your mac and cheese with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. This method helps to heat it through without drying it out. If you’d like the topping extra crispy, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes!

Can I modify the ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by ensuring all the cheeses are suitable. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, and use gluten-free pasta. Play around with the cheeses as well; gather your favorites for a delightful twist!

What should I do if my cheese sauce is grainy?
If your cheese sauce turns out grainy, it’s often due to overheating the cheese. To rescue it, try whisking in a splash of warm milk over low heat, stirring gently to bring it back together. Adding the cheeses at a lower temperature can help prevent this issue in the first place!