A can of cream of mushroom soup can be a real dinner saver. It works great in casseroles and can turn into a sauce or gravy in a pinch.
Copycat Sweetie Pie's Macaroni And Cheese
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As featured on the Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, the famous mac and cheese from Sweetie Pie's.
serves/makes:
ready in:
30-60 minutes
30-60 minutes
35 reviews
7 comments
ingredients
1 pound uncooked elbow macaroni pasta
1 cup whole milk
2 cans (12 ounce size) evaporated milk
3 eggs
1 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
1/2 pound shredded Colby cheese
1/2 pound shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 pound shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 pound Velveeta cheese, cubed
salt, to taste
1 tablespoon white pepper
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese
directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Bring a pan of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Add the pasta and cook as directed on the package. Drain the pasta well then place it in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, and eggs in a bowl. Whisk until uniform in color.
Sprinkle the pasta with the butter, Colby cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, sharp Cheddar cheese, and Velveeta.
Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and butter. Sprinkle with the salt, pepper, and sugar and mix gently.
Sprinkle the mild Cheddar evenly over the pasta. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 35-45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Serve Sweet Pie's mac and cheese hot.
recipe tips
Mix different cheeses for a unique flavor.
Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for a hint of spice.
Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions for added texture.
For a crispy top, broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking.
Experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder or mustard for extra flavor.
Adjust the seasoning to taste before baking.
Try using different pasta shapes for a fun twist.
common recipe questions
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
You can vary the cheese blend as desired, but it may alter the flavor and texture of the dish. Just make sure to use cheese that melts smoothly.
Do I have to use Velveeta cheese?
Velveeta cheese adds creaminess and helps bind the dish together, but you can substitute it with another melty cheese like American or Fontina.
How can I make this mac and cheese healthier?
To make this dish healthier, you can use low-fat milk, reduce the amount of butter, and opt for lower fat cheese options. The taste and texture will probably change, however.
Can I add other ingredients?
You can vary this mac and cheese by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, sauteed vegetables (onions, broccoli, etc), or a protein like chicken or lobster.
How do I keep the mac and cheese from becoming dry?
Avoid overbaking the dish or using too little liquid in the sauce. Make sure the pasta is well coated in the milk and cheese mixture before baking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
Should I cover the mac and cheese with foil while baking?
It's not necessary, but if the macaroni and cheese starts to brown too quickly you can cover it lightly with foil.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a little milk if it seems dry (the pasta will absorb some of the sauce moisture the longer it stands).
Can I freeze this mac and cheese?
Mac and cheese can be frozen before or after baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating in the oven.
tools needed
Large Pot: For boiling the elbow macaroni pasta. The pot should be large enough to accommodate plenty of water for cooking the pasta properly.
Colander: To drain the cooked macaroni pasta after it's been boiled.
9x13-inch Baking Dish: For combining all the ingredients and baking the macaroni and cheese in the oven.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure ingredients such as the milk, white pepper, and sugar.
Mixing Spoon or Spatula: For mixing the macaroni, cheese, and egg mixture in the baking dish.
what goes with it?
Grilled Chicken: The juicy, smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the creamy richness of the mac and cheese, creating a contrast that's simple yet delicious.
Baked Meatballs: Tender, savory meatballs (like these make-ahead meatballs) add a heartiness to the meal.
Buffalo Sauce: A drizzle of spicy buffalo sauce brings heat to the creamy mac.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect sidekick, allowing you to scoop up mac and cheese and adding a delicious garlic flavor.
Sauteed Broccoli: Adding sauteed broccoli provides color and nutrition. The bitterness of the greens can cut through the richness of the mac and cheese, balancing the overall meal.
Pulled Pork: Sweet and savory pulled pork pairs exceptionally well, with a smoky flavor that syncs beautifully with the macaroni's creamy texture. Serve it on top like a mac and cheese bowl!
Tomato Salad: A fresh tomato salad adds a nice contrast. The acidity of the tomatoes complements the richness of the cheese.
Fried Onions: Crunchy fried onions sprinkled on top create a delightful textural contrast and add a burst of flavor that enhances the overall experience of the cheesy dish.
Chili: A side of chili turns your meal into a hearty feast.
Sloppy Joes: The tangy, messy goodness of sloppy joes complements the mac and cheese for a nostalgic childhood favorite.
Pesto Drizzle: A drizzle of basil pesto adds an herby freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich cheese.
Pickled Jalapenos: The tangy heat from pickled jalapenos can add a zesty kick to the creamy mac and cheese.
nutrition data
1252 calories, 86 grams fat, 67 grams carbohydrates, 58 grams protein per serving.
Please note:
This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.
Pumpkins aren't just for pies or Halloween decorations. These large, orange gourds - while naturally sweet - also work well in savory dishes. They pair well with poultry and pork (and especially bacon) and their creamy-when-cooked texture blends easily into soups.
What's the secret ingredient in these cakes? Pudding mix. It not only adds flavor but it gives the cake a richer, creamier texture. No one will know your secret ingredient!
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reviews & comments
September 16, 2020
I agree...this recipe is "the one" with some suggestions from other reviewers (thanks). Cut the amount of butter in half, added 1/2 cup of sour cream. For another twist, add a 1/2 tsp of nutmeg. Was so yummy!
Can this be made without the eggs?
No, this recipe would be very soupy without the eggs. Unless a mac and cheese recipe calls for cooking a cheese sauce first it almost always has eggs in it. They are needed to thicken up the sauce. We have several other mac and cheese recipes on the site that do not call for eggs such as http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/recs/12/MacaroniCheeseWithParmesa13533.shtml
December 26, 2015
i have made this several times enjoy each time it is excellant,going to make it for New Years Eve also
8 servings???? The same identical recipe on other sites says it serves 12-20.
December 17, 2014
This is the best Macaroni and Cheese I every had! It should be 10 star rated. Plus this works out great to make the noodles ahead of time mix it up and put it in the crockpot the night before then just heat it all together in the morning on high for about 3 1/2 hours. Great dish for potlucks!
November 27, 2014
I likey
October 14, 2014
Great recipe. I added sour cream and cooked until firm. It was delicious. The recipe only has a 30-45 minute cook time. This gives you a runny mac and cheese. You need to cook for a much longer time if you want a firm mac and cheese like Ms. Robbies. She cooks hers until the top cheese starts to brown. I just kept checking mine until it was browned on top. Soo good.
September 14, 2014
Fantastic I have looked for a recipe like this for more years than I can count. Thank you!!!!!
you forgot the sour cream, with out that it's not the same
August 11, 2014
what happened to the sour cream
July 30, 2014
The original recipe calls for 1/2 cup sour cream also, either cdkitchen omitted it or overlooked it. Don't call it Sweetie Pie's if it isn't!
We don't create these recipes, they are submitted by users (the user's name is with each recipe they submit)
June 5, 2014
what I finlly what i have been looking for that great taste and termness that i can made at home in steadofthat crap they sell in those box stores
May 26, 2014
I tried this on Sunday and it was awesome
March 15, 2014
This recipe isn't right for sweetie pies thou, she has stated over and over there is sour cream in it
January 11, 2014
I also agree that there is just a little too much butter and it got a little greasy but otherwise super recipe! Very cheesy and good.
December 23, 2013
This is one of the best recipes ever. I wouldn't change a thing EVERYONE will be asking who made this Mac recipe.
December 12, 2013
Reduce the butter and you have theperfect macaroni and cheese recipe! Too much butter otherwise
November 18, 2013
This is my second time making this recipe this week! We love it!
November 2, 2013
I am so happy that I found this recipe. I watch Ms. Robbie on Sweetie Pies on OWN. Her food always looks delicious. I see all the great reviews and I will be using this recipe for Thanksgiving.
September 11, 2013
Rich and delicious! I agree with some of the other reviews that the amount of butter is too much. I think half the amount would suffice. I found the amount of cheese to be perfect. I like a rich and cheesy mac-n-cheese though so if you prefer a lighter version you can reduce the amount of cheese as some other reviewers have suggested. I thought this was a fantastic recipe!
July 10, 2013
I can't belive I found this recipe. I saw it on diners driveins and dives and have been thinking about it since. It is incredible. A bit rich so you don't want to eat it every day but it is the best mac and cheese I've ever tried.
May 12, 2013
It was a pretty decent recipe overall, i can admit i did not like how runny it was maybe cut down on the milk and the butter, milk to 2 cups and butter to 1/2 a cup reduce the amount of velveeta to half a pound and increase other shredded cheese mixtures if you would like a more settled baked macaroni i also added 4 eggs instead.
January 31, 2013
This is, BY FAR, the best macaroni and cheese recipe ever! I have been searching forever for one that is even remotely cheesy creamy. It is a huge hit wherever I take it. After making it as written the first time, I tweaked it a bit. Instead of the evaporated milk, I used 3 cups of whole milk. I also used 1/2 cup of sour cream. I cooked the mac. Melted the butter in a large pan and added 1/4 cup of flour to make a roux. I then added the milk, 1/2# colby, 1/2# sharp cheddar, 1# of Velveeta (needed for creaminess), the eggs(beat before adding), the sugar, 1/2 cup of sour cream, salt and pepper. I stirred until it was a creamy cheese sauce. Then, I added the cooked macaroni (I use medium shells) and blended it all together before pouring it into a butter sprayed 13x9 pan. WARNING....it will overfill your pan, so you will have a little to put into another pan. Sprinkle with panko flakes and bake as directed, watching to make sure that the panko flakes only turn a medium brown. TERRIFIC!!!
December 20, 2012
I made this for our family's Christmas party and it was a BIG hit. I did add 1/4 sour cream to the top of it. It was so good, people were taking it home afterwards! I highly recommend this recipe!
December 19, 2012
I have been drooling over this mac and cheese since I saw it on the Food Network. Made it exactly as written and it came out extremely oily. When eaten hot that first day, it had good flavor, but the oil just oozed out. Forget about trying it cold. Was like eating a block of Crisco. Next time I would cut way back on the butter and use a Panko topping instead of the cheese. I'm surprised no one else has had this problem.
December 18, 2012
omg what can i say the very very best i also added sour cream made 2012 turkey day my 15 year old daughter said this is the only thing she wants for christmas dinner .
December 1, 2012
I saw this recipe on Food Network's DDD, and tried to write the recipe down but didn't quite make it, so I looked it up and found this one. OMG, it was so good. Like others have said, on DDD she added sour cream, so I did too. I made this for Thanksgiving dinner and converted the recipe for 25 people, in that recipe, I added 1 cup of sour cream and it really makes a difference. Everyone loved it - even my youngest son who only likes Kraft blue box (yuk, compared to this). I am so glad I found this recipe, this will be the families go to for Mac & Cheese, thats what my husband says anyway! Thanks
November 19, 2012
I watch the DDD with Sweetie Pie and had to rush to write down the recipe. She did use sour cream and for those of you mentioned(it's not listed in the recipe). And for those that said you didn't see her use evaporated milk, if you look closely---she poured milk out of a jug and then out of the gallon container. She does use 2 different types of milk. Tried this recipe a few times, cut down on some of the cheese (not the type, just the amounts) and it has been the best recipe to date. Fantastic!
November 10, 2012
this was the best i cant get enough i give this a 10000 if i could be able to i would eat this nonstop
October 2, 2012
Enjoyed the recipe, would make it again and again
June 24, 2012
Very good but a little too much cheese for me. Will leave out some of the cheese next time, maybe some of the Velveeta.
April 22, 2012
Best MAC and Cheese I have ever made. It added some of my ingredients as well, but still your recipe got me started. I almost did not taste it, as my 4 boys and 3 girls devoured it. Need them to get the hell outta dodge and go back to College, so I can make another one for my husband and I, without the rat race. Thanks Ms. Robbie!!!!!!
I thought this recipe is suppose to have some sour cream in it. a When it appeared in the Guy Fieri show and she prepared it she included some sour cream. She made it in such large quantities for her restaurant that the amounts for one pound of macaroni was hard to figure out (hence looking it up here now). How much sour cream should we use for the 1 lb. of macaroni?
April 4, 2011
It was rich and decadent. I was a little concerned about the sugar at first but you can't even taste it. I have tried several macaroni and cheese recipes, in the past and by far this was the best one ever. My sister used this recipe first for a holiday and she did an awesome job making it so I wanted to try the recipe before I make it for Easter..Thanks, sis!
January 17, 2011
Made it for the first time for my famiy Christmas dinner and it was fabulous! I actually made 2 types of mac and cheese; Sweetie Pie's and my regular version. Needless to say, the regular version got thrown out with the rest if the Christmas leftovers. I will admit it was a little greasy with the butter and all the velveeta, but my family loved it!
November 23, 2010
Down home comfort food for sure. It was my first time making it, next time I will DEFINATELY cut back on the butter by at least half- there were pools of butter in the corners of the dish- and maybe add more noodles. With a few adjustments, this could be my new favorite mac and cheese recipe!
I too am a fan of DD&D and have watched this video clip a dozen times - hurriedly writing down Sweetie Pie's recipe. There is no mention of evaporated milk, she pours milk directly from the milk jug. Yes, the sour cream is in there! I made her recipe in a large crock pot and the roast pork from the Tip Top Cafe - also on DD& D for Christmas eve this past year. The mac and cheese cooked on high for 2 hours was perfect with a browned bottom and the pork roast - so goodd!! Yummmm
I saw this restaurant recipe on "Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives" and wanted to try it cuz it looked sooo good! I was super excited to see this site has it, can't wait to try it!
October 9, 2008
This is the best mac and cheese I have ever had!!! Someone made this for a work luncheon and everyone commented how delicious it is!
June 28, 2008
Just so you all know, it's supposed to be 1/2 pound colby jack shredded, not 1/2 colby and 1/2 jack. that will help with some of the too much cheeseyness. also as someone else mentioned, the foodnetwork episode mentioned sourcream. well, for this recipe, its supposed to be 1 heaping tablespoon sour cream(and i mean really heaping). hope this helped!
Has great cheese flavor, but way too much cheese (or not enough macaroni) and way too much butter. I made it a second time with half the cheese and half the butter and double the milk. Next time I will use even less butter. I saw a segment on Food Network about the restaurant and she put sour cream in, which is not listed in this recipe. I'll try that next time too.
March 19, 2008
My, oh my, soooooooo good. It's worth every calorie. This is better than my mom used to make! Creamy, delicious, full of good cheesy flavor. I'll make this again and again (as the calories will allow).