Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
- Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the warm milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue stirring as the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Add the mustard powder, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese “Volcano” Filling
- Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, chives, and a pinch of garlic powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Volcano Bowls
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Scoop the Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Divide the mac ‘n’ cheese mixture into oven-safe bowls or ramekins, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Add the Volcano Filling: Using a spoon or your hands, form a small ball of the cheese filling. Press it gently into the center of the mac ‘n’ cheese in each bowl, making sure to push it down so that it’s hidden in the middle of the pasta.
- Top with More Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Cover the filling with a bit more mac ‘n’ cheese, smoothing the top.
Step 5: Add the Topping
- Prepare the Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. For an extra kick, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper.
- Sprinkle on Top: Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over each bowl of mac ‘n’ cheese, creating a crunchy topping.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake: Place the bowls in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the bowls to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: As your guests dig in, they’ll be greeted with a cheesy eruption from the “volcano” center! Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Will Keep Visitors Engaged
These Volcano Mac ‘n’ Cheese Bowls offer more than just a satisfying bite—they deliver an interactive and memorable eating experience. The surprise of discovering a gooey cheese center adds excitement to every forkful, making it a perfect dish for gatherings where conversation and food collide.
Plus, this dish is easily customizable. Want to make it more indulgent? Add bacon or crispy pancetta to the filling. Need a bit of heat? Incorporate jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, and this makes it the type of dish your visitors will not only love eating but will enjoy coming back to time and again for variations.
Final Thoughts
These Volcano Mac ‘n’ Cheese Bowls take an already comforting and beloved classic and give it a fun, gourmet twist that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. With their crispy top, creamy macaroni, and molten cheese core, this dish delivers an eruption of flavor that’ll keep your guests around the table, savoring every bite.
So, the next time you’re looking for a way to elevate your mac ‘n’ cheese night, look no further. These bowls are a surefire hit for gatherings or even a cozy evening in—because who doesn’t love a little extra cheese in their life?