Shepherd's Pie with a Mexican Twist
◷ 1 hr 30 min
Main CourseReader rated
One-Pan Mac and Cheese Delight
This creamy and comforting dish comes together quickly with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with cheesy goodness, it’s sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike in just one pan.
◷35 minTotal Time
♜4Servings
▥MediumDifficulty
Ingredients
4servings
Instructions
1
Boil Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until it’s tender but still a little firm when you bite into it, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. While the pasta cooks, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
2
Make Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to make a smooth roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until everything is well combined. Add Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and the shredded Cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
3
Coat and Top Pasta
Drain the pasta and stir it into the cheese sauce until everything is nicely coated. Spread this cheesy mixture evenly on your prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Sprinkle this crumb topping over the mac and cheese.
4
Bake and Brown Topping
Melt the remaining butter in the microwave for about a minute, then drizzle it over the breadcrumb topping. Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake until the dish is bubbly and the topping is golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes. Let it cool slightly before serving and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is creamy, comforting, and easy to make all in one pan. It saves time on cleanup and delivers rich, cheesy flavor that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A sprinkle of crispy bacon or chopped herbs on top can add nice texture and flavor. It also pairs well with garlic bread.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk to restore creaminess if it thickens.
