From the chapter: COLLEGE – Paths Not Taken
That potluck night Lauren had to say no to the mountain trail, even though her heart almost said yes. Perfect dish for a crowd.
Lauren’s Thursday Night Mac & Cheese
“The perfect potluck dish for Seinfeld nights at Will’s—comforting, shareable, and just special enough to show you care without seeming like you’re trying too hard.”
The Basics
Lauren’s note: “On a college budget, but still want it to be good enough to share with friends who matter.”
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 8 oz sharp cheddar, grated
- 4 oz Monterey Jack, grated
- 4 oz smoked gouda, grated (Lauren’s upgrade from the basic version—worth the splurge!)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- A pinch of nutmeg (Lauren’s mom’s secret ingredient)
The Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
The Method
“Sometimes the simplest things mean the most—especially when shared with good friends.”
Cook macaroni according to package directions, just shy of al dente.
Meanwhile, make the sauce:
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute (just enough to get rid of that raw flour taste).
- Gradually whisk in milk.
- Cook, stirring often, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheeses until melted (cue the heavenly cheesy aroma).
- Add seasonings.
Combine sauce with drained pasta—try not to eat half of it right then and there.
Mix topping ingredients in a small bowl.
Transfer mac & cheese to a buttered 9×13 baking dish.
Sprinkle with topping—the golden crown of crunch.
Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and perfectly golden brown.
Lauren’s Tips for Maximum Mac & Cheese Magic
A few rules to live by (at least in the kitchen).
Grate your own cheese—pre-shredded cheese has that weird anti-caking stuff and doesn’t melt as well.
Don’t overcook the pasta—it’s gonna keep cooking in the sauce.
Make sure to get the sauce smooth before adding cheese—no grainy mac & cheese tragedies on our watch.
A disposable foil pan works great for potlucks (because nobody wants to stress over getting their dish back).
Perfect For…
Seinfeld night with friends (Best served while debating whether or not Newman is truly evil.)
Study group fuel (A’s may not be guaranteed, but food comas are.)
Comfort food when you need it most (College can be rough. Cheese makes it better.)
Showing up with something homemade instead of store-bought (Instant upgrade to MVP status.)
Final Notes from Lauren:
“Best enjoyed while laughing at Jerry’s latest girlfriend drama or George’s newest scheme. May lead to seconds, sharing of tall tales, and finding your place in a circle of friends who feel like home.”
🚨 Warning: This mac & cheese has been known to become the requested dish at every gathering. You might want to keep a few boxes of pasta on hand… just in case.
Background photo by Klaus Nielsen