Macaroni and cheese is a timeless comfort food loved by all ages. This dish, known for its creamy, cheesy goodness, is a perfect blend of tender pasta and rich sauce. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course, this homemade macaroni and cheese will hit the spot. The best part? You can whip it up with just a few basic ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistibly delicious macaroni and cheese recipe.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 (8-ounce) box elbow macaroni
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

• Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
• Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt ¼ cup butter over medium heat.
• Once the butter is melted and bubbling, whisk in the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture will form a smooth roux.
• Slowly pour in the 2 cups of milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add ½ teaspoon salt and ground black pepper to taste.

3. Add the Cheese:

• Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and slowly stir in the 2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

• Pour the cooked and drained macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

5. Bake (Optional):

• For a baked version of macaroni and cheese, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese or breadcrumbs, if desired.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Cooking Tips:

1. Cheese Choices: While Cheddar is the classic cheese used in macaroni and cheese, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack to add different flavors.
2. Creamy Sauce: To ensure your cheese sauce stays smooth, make sure to gradually add the milk and whisk constantly to avoid lumps. Don’t let the sauce boil, as it can cause the cheese to become grainy.
3. Baking Tip: If you choose to bake your macaroni and cheese, you can sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter on top for an extra crispy, golden crust.
4. Pasta Varieties: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use other pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or penne, which also hold onto the cheesy sauce well.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain its creaminess.
• Freezing: You can freeze baked macaroni and cheese by transferring it to a freezer-safe container before baking. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake it until heated through.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 350-400
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 550mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 15g

(These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and amounts of ingredients used.)

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other types like penne, rotini, or shells. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for the pasta shape you choose.

2. How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, you can use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, or use a lighter cheese such as part-skim mozzarella. You can also incorporate vegetables like broccoli or spinach into the dish.

3. Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely. You can substitute regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice. Just keep in mind that the sauce may have a slightly different flavor and consistency.

4. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming gritty?

The key to a smooth sauce is to avoid overheating the cheese. Make sure to melt the cheese into the sauce off the heat and avoid boiling the sauce once the cheese is added.

5. Can I add other ingredients to this dish?

Yes! You can add cooked bacon, ham, or even steamed vegetables like peas, cauliflower, or broccoli to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value.