Mac and Cheese Recipe
Mac and Cheese Recipe
Table of Contents
Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Classic Mac and Cheese Recipe delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite. Made with simple ingredients and easy to follow steps, this recipe ensures a perfectly baked dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The blend of sharp cheddar and creamy milk creates a luscious sauce that coats every elbow macaroni. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this mac and cheese is sure to become a favorite. Plus, with the option to bake or serve it stovetop, this mac and cheese recipe is versatile and quick.
Description
Mac and cheese recipe is a classic comfort food that everyone loves, and this recipe is a tried and true favorite. With just a few simple ingredients like elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, milk, and butter, you can create a dish that’s both creamy and cheesy, with the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, potluck, or holiday feast, this mac and cheese recipe is sure to impress.
The base of this dish is a rich, velvety cheese sauce that combines butter, flour, milk, and cheese. The flour helps thicken the sauce, while the milk provides creaminess. The key to getting the perfect texture is to allow the sauce to simmer gently so it thickens without clumping. You can adjust the cheese blend to suit your taste. Sharp cheddar is the traditional choice, but you can add other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan for extra flavor.
One of the best things about this mac and cheese recipe is its versatility. You can make it on the stovetop for a quicker version, or bake it for a crispy, golden top that adds an extra layer of texture. Either way, this mac and cheese is the perfect comfort food, and it can be served as a side dish or as the main course.
The recipe is also customizable to suit different dietary needs. If you prefer a gluten-free version, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free variety, and use a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce. You can even add extras like crispy bacon, breadcrumbs, or vegetables to give it a twist.
Another great aspect of this mac and cheese recipe is how easy it is to prepare. The steps are straightforward, and with minimal prep time, you can have a dish ready to serve in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting and indulgent but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups whole milk (or half and half for a richer sauce)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, adds depth)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking frequently until the sauce begins to thicken (about 4-5 minutes).
- Add the Cheese:
- Once the sauce has thickened, lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella. Stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
- Optional Baking (for crispy top):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, creamy mac and cheese.
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Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups whole milk or half and half for a richer sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder optional
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional, adds depth
- ½ cup breadcrumbs for topping, optional
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking frequently until the sauce begins to thicken (about 4-5 minutes).
- Add the Cheese:
- Once the sauce has thickened, lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella. Stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
- Optional Baking (for crispy top):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, creamy mac and cheese!
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match different cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or even a little Parmesan for added flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Add-Ins: You can add extras like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or vegetables to give your mac and cheese a twist.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
