Grilled Pimento Mac and Cheese – Smoky, Cheesy Comfort Food

If you love mac and cheese and you love a golden, crispy crust, get ready to fall in love with Grilled Pimento Mac and Cheese. This indulgent twist on a classic comfort dish combines creamy, cheesy macaroni with sweet, tangy pimentos and a perfectly crisped, grilled top. Each bite is rich, savory, and satisfying—a dish that’s both elegant enough for dinner parties and comforting enough for weeknight meals.

Whether served on its own, as a side dish, or as a decadent lunch sandwich, grilled pimento mac and cheese is a versatile dish that brings together cheesy goodness and bold flavor in every bite. In this article, we’ll dive into what makes it unique, how to cook it to perfection, and ways to customize it for maximum comfort and flair.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Pimento Mac and Cheese

Grilled pimento mac and cheese takes everything you love about traditional mac and cheese and adds a twist that makes it unforgettable:

1. Creamy, Cheesy Flavor: A smooth cheese sauce made from a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy cheeses coats each noodle in gooey goodness.

2. Sweet and Savory Pimentos: Diced pimentos add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the cheese.

3. Crunchy, Golden Topping: Grilling or broiling the dish creates a perfectly crisp, golden crust that adds texture and depth.

4. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This dish is indulgent, fun, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a gourmet twist on classic grilled cheese sandwiches.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup diced pimentos (from jar, drained)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon butter (melted, for topping)

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Grill/Broil Time: 5–10 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until smooth. Fold in diced pimentos.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until evenly coated. Pour into a greased baking dish.

5. Add Topping (Optional)
If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the mac and cheese.

6. Grill or Broil
Place under the broiler or on a hot grill for 5–10 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

7. Serve
Allow to cool slightly, then serve warm as a side dish, or scoop into toasted sandwich bread for an indulgent grilled mac and cheese sandwich.

Nutritional Information

Calories: ~480
Protein: 18g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g

Serving Ideas

• Classic Side Dish: Pair with roasted chicken, pork chops, or a crisp salad.
• Gourmet Sandwich: Spoon mac and cheese between slices of sourdough, then grill for a decadent lunch.
• Potluck Favorite: Bake in a larger dish and top with extra cheese for a crowd-pleasing dish.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Pimento Mac and Cheese

• Use Sharp Cheese: A bold cheddar flavor balances the sweetness of the pimentos.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: It will continue cooking slightly in the oven or under the broiler.
• Customize Your Toppings: Add crispy bacon bits, extra pimentos, or even jalapeños for a kick.
• Watch the Broiler: Cheese and breadcrumbs can burn quickly; keep a close eye for the perfect golden top.

Why Grilled Pimento Mac and Cheese Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Box

This dish is creamy, comforting, and versatile. It combines the gooey richness of mac and cheese with a crispy, golden finish and the sweet, tangy punch of pimentos. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s a recipe that’s simple to make but impressive to serve.

The combination of textures, flavors, and colors ensures that each bite is memorable, making grilled pimento mac and cheese a modern classic that belongs in every kitchen.

Grilled pimento mac and cheese is more than just comfort food — it’s a fun, flavorful, and indulgent dish that proves homemade mac and cheese can be both elegant and deeply satisfying. Grab your skillet, preheat your broiler, and get ready to enjoy creamy, cheesy perfection with a golden, crispy twist.ed Pimento Mac and Cheese is comfort food with a smoky, Southern-inspired twist. It’s rich, cheesy, and perfect for sharing at cookouts or enjoying as a main dish. Once you try this version, you’ll never look at regular mac and cheese the same way again.