Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our classic Macaroni and Cheese recipe. Velvety elbow macaroni smothered in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. Follow the recipe guarantees a mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone craving for more. Perfect for family dinners or as a delightful side at gatherings. Enjoy a bowl of cheesy goodness that brings warmth and joy to every bite!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese mild or sharp as per your preference
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder optional
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs optional for a crunchy topping
Instructions
1/ Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions given on it.
2/ In a large saucepan do medium heat melt the butter. Once melted add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes a smooth paste.
3/ Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk until the mixture is well combined and starts to thicken.
4/ Add the mustard powder garlic powder, salt and pepper to the sauce. Stir until the seasonings are incorporated.
5/ Gradually add the shredded cheese stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6/ Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure all the pasta is coated with the cheesy goodness.
7/ Optional: If you prefer a crunchy topping sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the macaroni and cheese.
8/ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a lightly greased baking dish.
9/ Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
10/ Once out of the oven let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and comforting Macaroni and Cheese!
You can also customize this recipe by adding cooked bacon, diced vegetables, or different types of cheeses for a unique twist. This classic dish is perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.
Tips and Tricks to Make the Perfect Macaroni and Cheese
Use Quality Cheese: Opt for good quality cheddar cheese or a mix of your favorite cheeses. The better the cheese the richer and more flavorful your Macaroni and Cheese will be.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue cooking in the cheese sauce later. Overcooked pasta can result in a mushy texture.
Add Mustard or Garlic: A pinch of mustard powder or garlic powder can enhance the cheese sauce’s flavor and add a subtle depth to your Macaroni and Cheese.
Season the Sauce: Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat if you like.
Mix Cheeses for Variety: Combine different types of cheeses, such as mild cheddar, sharp cheddar, or Gouda, for a more complex and interesting flavor.
Add Protein and Veggies: Customize your Macaroni and Cheese by adding cooked bacon diced ham or sautéed vegetables like broccoli peas or spinach.
Use Breadcrumbs for Crunch: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the Macaroni and Cheese before baking.
Prevent Cheese Sauce Separation: To avoid the cheese sauce from becoming grainy or separating, melt the cheese gradually over low to medium heat, and avoid high heat.
Rest Before Serving: Let the Macaroni and Cheese rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Reheat with Care: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta before heating to maintain its creamy consistency.
Double the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a larger group, feel free to double or triple the recipe. Just adjust the ingredients accordingly.
With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create a delicious and comforting Macaroni and Cheese that will be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy your creamy and cheesy masterpiece.
NUTRITION FACTS
Here are approximate nutrition facts for a standard serving of homemade macaroni and cheese, typically made with elbow macaroni, cheese sauce, and butter:
Nutrition Facts for One Serving of Homemade Macaroni and Cheese (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Total Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
- Cholesterol: 30-40 milligrams
- Sodium: 500-700 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 4-6 grams
- Protein: 10-12 grams
Please keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. For example:
Cheese Type: The type and amount of cheese used can significantly impact the calorie and fat content. Using lower-fat or reduced-sodium cheese can make the dish healthier.
Pasta Type: If you use whole wheat pasta instead of traditional white pasta, you’ll increase the fiber content.
Butter and Milk: Some recipes call for butter and whole milk, which can add to the fat content. You can use lower-fat milk or butter substitutes for a lighter version.
Portion Size: The serving size can vary, so be mindful of how much you serve yourself.
Toppings and Add-Ins: If you add breadcrumbs, bacon, or other toppings, be sure to consider their nutritional impact.
Macaroni and cheese is a comfort food that is enjoyed by many, but it can be high in calories and saturated fat. To make it more nutritious, you can experiment with using less cheese, incorporating vegetables like broccoli or spinach, and choosing whole-grain pasta. These changes can help boost fiber and reduce the overall calorie and fat content while maintaining the delicious flavor.
