Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely warmth)
- 4 cups (about 1 pound) shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar, Gruyere, and Monterey Jack is amazing!)
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
Optional Toppings:
- Breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
- Bacon bits
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Hot sauce (for a kick!)
Let’s Talk Cheese (Because That’s Important!)
Choosing the right cheese is crucial for achieving that perfect Mac And Cheese texture and flavor. I like to use a blend of cheeses for complexity. Sharp cheddar provides that classic cheesy taste, Gruyere adds a nutty richness, and Monterey Jack melts beautifully, creating a super creamy sauce. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses! Some other great options include:- Mild Cheddar: For a milder, kid-friendly flavor.
- Colby Jack: Another great melting cheese with a slightly sweet flavor.
- Gouda: Offers a smoky, buttery flavor.
- Fontina: A semi-hard cheese that melts beautifully and has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt seasons the pasta from the inside out!
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Don’t overcook it! Slightly undercooked pasta will hold its shape better in the cheese sauce.
- Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is the base of our cheese sauce. It should be smooth and golden.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t let it boil!
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Gradually add the shredded cheese, one handful at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is where patience is key! Don’t rush it, and keep stirring to prevent the cheese from clumping.
Combining and Baking (Optional):
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- At this point, you can serve the Mac And Cheese immediately. It’s delicious as is!
- For a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the Mac And Cheese into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. This will allow the cheese sauce to thicken up a bit.
Troubleshooting Your Mac And Cheese
- Sauce too thick? Add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
- Sauce too thin? Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, then whisk it into the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
- Cheese sauce is grainy? This usually happens when the cheese is overheated. Reduce the heat and stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar. The acidity can help smooth out the sauce.
- Macaroni sticking together? Rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to remove excess starch. Toss with a little oil before adding it to the cheese sauce.
Level Up Your Mac: Creative Add-Ins
Want to take your Mac And Cheese to the next level? Here are some delicious add-ins to consider:- Veggies: Broccoli florets, peas, roasted red peppers, spinach, caramelized onions, or sauteed mushrooms.
- Proteins: Cooked bacon, shredded chicken, pulled pork, sausage, or shrimp.
- Spices: Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (for a kick!), or Italian seasoning.
- Sauces: A drizzle of BBQ sauce, pesto, or hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Mac And Cheese is a fantastic dish on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:- A simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables (like Brussels sprouts or asparagus)
- Garlic bread
- Coleslaw
Making Ahead and Storing
You can prepare the Mac And Cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little milk if needed to thin out the sauce. Baked Mac And Cheese can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.Other Cheesy Pasta Delights
If you are in the mood for other cheesy dishes, consider Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. This dish will definitely become a family favorite. If you are craving a creamy soup, then give Creamy Pasta Soup a try.Tips for the Perfect Mac Every Time
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is the way to go! Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the cheese sauce.
- Use high-quality cheese: The better the cheese, the better the flavor of your Mac And Cheese.
- Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Low and slow is the key: Don’t rush the cheese sauce. Cook it over low heat, stirring constantly, to prevent the cheese from clumping or burning.
- Season to taste: Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to your liking.
Conclusion
So, ditch the box and embrace the deliciousness of homemade Mac And Cheese! This recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy your comfort food cravings. With a little love and the right ingredients, you can create a Mac And Cheese masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!Why is it recommended to shred your own cheese for mac and cheese?
Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly. Shredding your own cheese ensures a creamier sauce.
What can I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?
If your cheese sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
What are some creative add-ins to elevate my mac and cheese?
You can add veggies like broccoli or caramelized onions, proteins like bacon or pulled pork, spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, or sauces like BBQ sauce or pesto.
How far in advance can I make mac and cheese?
You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Best Mac and Cheese Ever
This recipe creates a decadent and creamy homemade Mac and Cheese that will redefine your comfort food expectations. Forget the boxed stuff and experience a flavor explosion with a perfect blend of cheeses and a smooth, rich sauce. It’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, until al dente.
- Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Gradually add the shredded cheese, one handful at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, or preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) for a baked version.
- Pour the Mac and Cheese into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish (if baking).
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top (if baking).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly (if baking).
- Let it cool slightly before serving (if baking).
Notes
For a thinner sauce, add a splash of milk or cream. For a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, then whisk it into the sauce and simmer for a few minutes. To prevent cheese sauce from becoming grainy, cook over low heat and avoid overheating the cheese. Mac and Cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Get creative with add-ins like broccoli, bacon, or hot sauce.
