Rib Cage Mac & Cheese

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Why Make This Recipe

Rib Cage Mac & Cheese is a fun and creative twist on a classic comfort food. The creamy cheese sauce enveloping the tender macaroni is delightful on its own, but the addition of crescent roll dough shaped like ribs brings a whimsical touch. This dish is perfect for family dinners, parties, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a unique recipe. Besides its visual appeal, the simple ingredients make it an uncomplicated meal to prepare, allowing everyone to enjoy a hearty serving of cheesy goodness without the stress.

How to Make Rib Cage Mac & Cheese

Creating Rib Cage Mac & Cheese is straightforward. With just a few ingredients and clear steps, even a novice cook can master this dish. Follow the methods below to make a delicious mac and cheese that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

8 oz Elbow Macaroni
2 cups Cheddar Cheese
1 cup Milk
4 tbsp Butter
2 tbsp Flour
1 cup Bread Crumbs
1 can Crescent Roll Dough
1 tsp Salt
1 tsp Pepper
1 tsp Garlic Powder

Directions

Cook the macaroni by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook until al dente, which usually takes about 7 to 8 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour to make a roux. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux. Continuously stir until the mixture thickens, which will take around 3 to 5 minutes.
Incorporate the cheese: Lower the heat and add in the cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for added flavor.
Combine macaroni and cheese sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Make sure every piece of macaroni is evenly coated with the creamy cheese.
Shape the crescent roll dough: Open the can of crescent roll dough. Roll the dough out and shape it into rib-like structures. You can form them however you like, but aim for shapes that resemble ribs for the best effect.
Layer the baking dish: In a baking dish, lay down a layer of the macaroni and cheese. Then, place the rib-shaped dough on top in an interesting arrangement.
Add breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the shaped dough. This will create a crisp and delicious crust when baked.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Cool before serving: After removing from the oven, let the dish cool slightly before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.

How to Serve Rib Cage Mac & Cheese

Rib Cage Mac & Cheese can be served as a main dish or a side. To serve, simply dish out a generous scoop of the mac and cheese onto each plate, ensuring everyone gets a piece of the crispy crescent roll ribs on top. This makes for a beautiful presentation that is sure to please both the eyes and the taste buds. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the mac and cheese. You might also serve it with a nice chilled drink to complement the meal.

How to Store Rib Cage Mac & Cheese

To store any leftovers, allow the Rib Cage Mac & Cheese to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to three days. When you are ready to eat leftovers, you can reheat them in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, consider covering it loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out too much.

Tips to Make Rib Cage Mac & Cheese

Cheese Variations: While Cheddar cheese works great in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. Mozzarella, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheeses can add different flavors and textures.
Pasta Choices: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use other shapes like shells or fusilli if you prefer.
Add-Ins: Consider adding cooked bacon, grilled chicken, or veggies like spinach or broccoli to give your mac and cheese more flair and nutrition.
Cooking the Dough: When shaping the crescent roll dough, make sure not to overcrowd the top. You want the ribs to be distinct and attractive instead of looking squished.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the mac and cheese while it bakes. Since ovens can vary in temperature, your dish may need a little more or less time than noted.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, consider making a BBQ version of Rib Cage Mac & Cheese. To do this, simply add some barbecue sauce to the cheese sauce for a smoky flavor. Top with fried onion strings instead of breadcrumbs for added crunch. This variation can make your dish stand out even more and can be a big hit with those who love bold flavors.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes! If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the recipe can remain the same.

How do I make it ahead of time?

You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking. After layering the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to bake, just remove the plastic wrap and bake as instructed.

Can I freeze leftover Rib Cage Mac & Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Rib Cage Mac & Cheese can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

What can I serve as sides with Rib Cage Mac & Cheese?

To enhance your meal, consider serving a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread alongside your Rib Cage Mac & Cheese. These sides can help balance the richness of the dish.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different cheeses according to your tastes. Just keep in mind that each cheese comes with its own level of creaminess and flavor, so choose ones that you enjoy.

Rib Cage Mac & Cheese is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of mac and cheese with an innovative presentation. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, it’s the perfect recipe for any occasion. Happy cooking!