This creamy mac and cheese is a cozy dish that’s perfect for any meal. Made with gooey cheese and tender pasta, it warms you up from the inside out!
If you’re like me, you can’t resist sneaking a spoonful while it’s still bubbling hot. Don’t worry; I won’t tell if you do too! 😄
I love how simple it is to whip up. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! It pairs perfectly with some crispy bacon or a fresh salad for a fun meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: These are the classic choice for mac and cheese. If you don’t have them, you can easily use other small pasta shapes like shells, fusilli, or penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar gives that classic mac and cheese flavor. For a twist, mix in some pepper jack for spice or gouda for a smoky touch. If you’re dairy-free, try cashew cheese or a plant-based cheese blend.
Butter: This adds richness to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could substitute olive oil or vegan butter. It’ll still be tasty!
Milk: Whole milk makes for a creamy sauce. If you prefer low-fat, go for 2% milk or use unsweetened almond milk for a lighter variation. Just be aware that the texture might be slightly different.
How Can I Get My Cheese Sauce to Be Perfectly Smooth?
Making a smooth cheese sauce is crucial for creamy mac and cheese. Here’s how to do it:
- Create a roux by cooking equal parts butter and flour on medium heat for about 2 minutes. This helps thicken your sauce.
- Whisk in cold milk gradually. Continuous whisking prevents lumps. If you see any, keep working them out!
- Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, usually 5 to 7 minutes.
- Finally, take it off the heat before adding cheese. This helps the cheese melt without clumping!
By following these tips, your cheese sauce will be luscious and velvety every time. Happy cooking!
Paula Deen’s Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a slight smoky flavor)
- 1 cup shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious mac and cheese recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake, totaling around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a hearty side dish or a main course that will satisfy your cheesy cravings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish, around 9×13 inches, or use an oven-safe Dutch oven to ensure your mac and cheese bakes perfectly.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni and set it aside for now.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. After it’s melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes until it turns golden and bubbly, but don’t let it brown.
4. Add the Milk:
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, being sure to break up any lumps. Keep cooking and whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Stir in the Cheeses:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and 2 cups of Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
6. Season the Sauce:
Add salt, black pepper, and paprika (if you’re using it) to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well until all the noodles are coated in that creamy goodness.
8. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with 1 cup of shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese for a delicious golden crust.
9. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
10. Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. If you’d like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy Paula Deen-style mac and cheese!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times. This way, you can enjoy a delicious mac and cheese without gluten!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time! After mixing the pasta and cheese sauce, store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just be sure to bake it longer if it goes into the oven cold.
What Should I Do If My Cheese Sauce is Lumpy?
If your cheese sauce seems lumpy, try using an immersion blender to smooth it out. Alternatively, whisk it vigorously over low heat to help melt the cheese lumps. Just remember to let the sauce cool slightly before blending if it’s too hot!
How Can I Store Leftover Mac and Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
