Mac and Cheese is a warm and cheesy dish that makes everyone smile! With soft pasta and creamy cheese sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food and oh-so-easy to make!
Honestly, who can resist the gooey goodness? I love making it on chilly nights. Just a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top, and it feels like a hug on a plate! 🧀❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic choice is perfect for holding the cheese sauce. If you don’t have it, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini, which also catch the cheese nicely.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended here. However, if you’re watching your salt intake, you can use olive oil instead for a slightly different flavor.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the star for that strong, tangy taste. For a twist, try adding Gruyère or Monterey Jack. If you’re dairy-free, use vegan cheese that melts well.
Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest results. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute with 2% milk or use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat, but choose those without added flavors.
Dijon Mustard: This adds great depth to the flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can omit it or use yellow mustard instead.
How Do You Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
The cheese sauce is crucial for mac and cheese. To achieve that creamy texture, follow these steps:
- Start by making a roux: Melt butter and whisk in flour until light golden. This thickens the sauce.
- Slowly pour in warmed milk while whisking to avoid lumps. The sauce will thicken in about 5-7 minutes.
- Once thick, remove from heat and add cheese gradually, stirring until smooth. Avoid boiling after adding the cheese to keep it creamy.
Don’t forget to season your sauce well with salt, pepper, and optional spices to enhance the overall flavor. Enjoy your creamy results!
Classic Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk (preferably whole milk), warmed
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This classic mac and cheese recipe will take about 20-25 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 10-15 minutes preparing the creamy cheese sauce and combining everything. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Make sure not to rinse it, so the cheese sauce sticks well later.
2. Make the Roux:
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes, until you see it turn a light golden color and you can’t smell raw flour anymore.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
Gradually add the warmed milk to the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep cooking and whisking for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This is where you get that creamy goodness!
4. Add the Cheese:
Now, lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If you want to add flavor depth, mix in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne.
5. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently fold everything together until the macaroni is thoroughly coated with the creamy cheese sauce. Look at that cheesy goodness!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your delicious mac and cheese to a serving bowl. For a lovely touch, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Serve it right away while it’s warm and melty. Dig in and enjoy the comforting flavor of homemade mac and cheese!
This recipe yields a smooth, cheesy mac and cheese that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy each bite of cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as gluten-free pasta can have different cooking requirements. Follow the package instructions for best results!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese in advance! Cook it up to the point of adding the cheese sauce; then let it cool and refrigerate. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the oven or on the stove, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
What Are Some Good Add-Ins for Mac and Cheese?
Feel free to customize your mac and cheese! You can add cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or even different cheeses for a unique flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time for any fresh ingredients!
