Macaroni and cheese is the epitome of comfort food, beloved by kids and adults alike. This recipe takes the classic dish to new heights with a rich, creamy cheese sauce that envelops every tender bite of pasta.
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Steps
1. Cook the Pasta Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, creating a roux. Continue to whisk for about 2 minutes, until the mixture turns golden and bubbly. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Cheese and Seasonings Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
5. Create the Topping In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a tablespoon of melted butter. Mix well and sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the macaroni and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. For an extra golden crust, you can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
7. Serve and Enjoy Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate comfort food.
Tips for Variation
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or Fontina for a unique twist.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative.
Macros
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and bake as directed.
- How can I prevent my mac and cheese from being grainy?
- Ensure you melt the cheese over low heat and stir continuously. Using freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded can also help achieve a smoother sauce.
- Can I freeze mac and cheese?
- Yes, mac and cheese can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs for the topping?
- You can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crushed cornflakes as an alternative topping for a crunchy texture.
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Best
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cups whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, creating a roux. Continue to whisk for about 2 minutes, until the mixture turns golden and bubbly. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the Cheese and Seasonings Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Create the Topping In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a tablespoon of melted butter. Mix well and sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake to Perfection Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the macaroni and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. For an extra golden crust, you can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve and Enjoy Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate comfort food.