Spicy Kimchi Mac & Cheese (Print)
Creamy pasta meets tangy kimchi, vibrant cheese blend, and crisp sesame crumb for memorable comfort food.
# Components:
→ Pasta
01 - 10.5 ounces elbow macaroni
02 - 1 tablespoon salt for boiling water
→ Cheese Sauce
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
05 - 1.9 cups whole milk
06 - 5.3 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
07 - 2.65 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated
08 - 1.75 ounces cream cheese, cubed
09 - 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
10 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
13 - Salt, to taste
→ Kimchi Mixture
14 - 5.3 ounces well-fermented kimchi, finely chopped
15 - 1 tablespoon kimchi juice
16 - 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
→ Topping
17 - 1.75 ounces panko breadcrumbs
18 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
19 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
20 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a medium baking dish.
02 - Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, season generously with salt, and cook elbow macaroni until just al dente. Drain pasta and set aside.
03 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Gradually add whole milk to the roux, whisking continuously until mixture is smooth and thickens, approximately 4–5 minutes.
05 - Reduce the heat and add grated cheddar, mozzarella, and cubed cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
06 - Mix in gochujang, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and black pepper, then adjust salt to taste.
07 - Fold in chopped kimchi, kimchi juice, and sliced spring onions until evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
08 - Add drained macaroni to the cheese and kimchi mixture, stirring thoroughly until all pasta is well coated. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
09 - In a mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, toasted sesame seeds, melted butter, and sesame oil. Distribute topping evenly over the pasta layer.
10 - Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the topping is golden and the dish is bubbling around the edges. Allow to cool briefly before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Fusion of spicy kimchi and creamy cheese for unique flavor
- Crispy sesame topping adds texture and extra depth
02 -
- Kimchi brands vary in spice and flavor—taste before adding to adjust heat
- Dairy-free alternatives easily swap for cheese and butter for vegan option
03 -
- Chill kimchi slightly for easier chopping and less mess
- For deeper flavor, brown the butter before making the sauce