15 Southern Living Recipe King Ranch Mac And Cheese Discover Culinary Perfection!

The History of King Ranch Mac and Cheese

The Origin

The origins of King Ranch Mac and Cheese can be traced back to the famous King Ranch in South Texas. The ranch, which was established in 1853, is renowned for its cattle and its influence on the development of the cattle industry in the United States. It's also known for its delicious southern cuisine, which has been passed down through generations. The original recipe for King Ranch Mac and Cheese was created by the ranch's head cook, Helen Corbitt, in the 1950s. It quickly became a favorite among the ranch's workers and visitors, and eventually gained popularity throughout the southern region.

The Evolution

As with most recipes, King Ranch Mac and Cheese has evolved over time. Different variations have emerged, with some recipes including additional ingredients like green chilies, black beans, and corn. However, the core components of cheese, chicken, and tomatoes remain consistent in all versions. This dish has become a staple in southern potlucks, church gatherings, and family dinners, and has even made its way onto restaurant menus.

Making Your Own King Ranch Mac and Cheese

The Ingredients

To make your own version of King Ranch Mac and Cheese, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of macaroni
• 4 tablespoons of butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

The Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers, and cook until they're softened.
5. Add the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, and chicken to the skillet, and stir until well combined.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, heavy cream, flour, chili powder, and salt and pepper.
7. Add the mixture to the skillet, stirring until everything is coated.
8. Layer half of the cooked macaroni in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. Top the macaroni with half of the chicken mixture, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
10. Repeat the layers with the remaining macaroni, chicken mixture, and cheese.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Let cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy!

Customization Tips

While the traditional King Ranch Mac and Cheese recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to add your own personal touch to the dish. Here are a few suggestions:

• For an extra kick of heat, add some jalapenos or hot sauce to the dish.
• For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add in some black beans and corn for added protein and flavor.
• To make the dish even creamier, substitute the cheddar cheese with Velveeta or cream cheese.
• For a healthier option, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta and low-fat cheese.

In conclusion, King Ranch Mac and Cheese is a beloved southern dish that has stood the test of time. Its simple yet delicious combination of ingredients has made it a go-to comfort food for many families. Now that you have the history and recipe, it's time to gather your ingredients and try making it yourself. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.