Crispy Skillet Mac & Cheese

Crispy Skillet Mac & Cheese

Golden, creamy, and just a little indulgent - this mac & cheese is what cozy gatherings were made for. The edges turn perfectly crisp in the skillet, the center stays velvety and rich, and a sprinkle of Borsari Savory adds that extra depth that makes everyone reach for seconds. Finished with a drizzle of Borsari Olive Oil, it’s comfort food elevated - the kind of side that brings everyone a little closer around the table.

Serves: 6–8 as a side
Prep: 10 min
Cook: 20–25 min
Total: ~30–35 min

Ingredients

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (about 3 cups dry)
  • 3 Tbsp Borsari Olive Oil, divided
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 Tbsp flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar (or a mix with Gruyère/Fontina)
  • 1½ to 2 tsp Borsari Savory Seasoning, plus more to finish
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, or snipped chives

Instructions

  1. Boil the pasta. Cook elbows in salted water until just al dente. Drain & do not rinse.
  2. Make the cheese sauce. In a large skillet (oven-safe if you want), heat 1 Tbsp olive oil and the butter over medium. Whisk in flour; cook 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and gently simmering. Off heat, stir in cheddar until melted. Season with Borsari Savory (start with 1½ tsp) and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like.
  3. Combine. Fold the pasta into the sauce until coated and creamy.
  4. Get the crispy bits. Press the mac & cheese into an even layer in the same skillet. Drizzle edges with 1 Tbsp olive oil. Cook undisturbed over medium heat 5 to 7 minutes until the bottom develops those bronzed, lacy “fried” edges, like in the photo.
  5. Make the topping. In a small bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, 1 Tbsp olive oil, and a few shakes of Borsari Savory.
  6. Finish. Scatter the topping over the skillet. Cook 2 to 3 minutes more on the stovetop, or slide under the broiler 1 to 2 minutes until toasty (watch closely!).
  7. Serve. Spoon into warm bowls and finish with a final pinch of Borsari Savory and herbs. Perfect alongside roasted carrots, greens, and turkey.

Pro Tips

  • Make-ahead: Prep through Step 3, cool, cover, and refrigerate up to 2 days. Rewarm gently, then proceed with the crisp + topping.
  • Leftovers: Press cold mac into the skillet with a drizzle of Borsari Olive Oil and sear both sides into golden cakes.
  • Cheese swap: Blend cheddar with Gruyère for extra melt or mozzarella for extra pull.

 

 

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