Raclette-Gruyère Mac and Cheese with Pickled Shallots

4.3

(4)

4 Reviews

Inspired by älplermagronen, Alpine farmers’ macaroni, this Swiss twist on a Thanksgiving classic gets rich flavor from Gruyère and a lush creaminess from Raclette. Traditional versions of this dish are served with applesauce; as a nod to that flavor play, we’ve added some shallots that are quickly pickled in apple cider vinegar to balance the cheesy richness.

By Josh Miller

Updated on August 2, 2023

Tested by

Food & Wine Test Kitchen

Raclette gruyere macaroni and cheese with pickled shallots — Photo: Photo by Victor Protasio / Food Styling by Torie Cox / Prop Styling by Claire Spollen

Active Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

55 mins

Yield:

8 to 10

Cook Mode (Keep screen awake)

Ingredients

1 cup thinly sliced shallots
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup water
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
5 cups whole milk, warmed
12 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated (about 3 cups)
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
16 ounces cavatappi pasta, cooked according to pkg. directions for al dente
6 ounces raclette cheese, grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
Chopped fresh chives, for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F. Combine shallots, vinegar, 1/2 cup water, sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt in a microwavable bowl. Microwave on HIGH 3 minutes. Let cool 15 minutes; drain.
While shallots cool, melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium. Whisk in flour; cook, stirring constantly, until light golden brown, about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in warm milk until combined. Increase heat to medium-high; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer, whisking often, until thickened, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat. Add Gruyère, pepper, nutmeg, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt; stir until cheese melts. Stir in pasta and 3/4 cup pickled shallots.
Transfer pasta mixture to a 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining pickled shallots over top of pasta; sprinkle evenly with raclette cheese. Bake in preheated oven until top is golden brown, about 35 minutes. Garnish with chives.