Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a traditional baked version, along with tips and variations.
Ingredients:
• For the Macaroni:
◦ 1 lb (16 oz) elbow macaroni or other small pasta
• For the Cheese Sauce:
◦ 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
◦ 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
◦ 3 cups whole milk
◦ 1 cup heavy cream
◦ 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
◦ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
◦ Salt and pepper, to taste
◦ 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for depth of flavor)
◦ 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• For the Topping:
◦ 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
◦ 2 tablespoons melted butter
◦ 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
1. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes, until al dente (tender but still firm).
3. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process, then set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
1. Start with a Roux: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter has melted and started to bubble, sprinkle in the flour. Whisk constantly to combine the butter and flour, forming a thick paste. Keep whisking for about 2-3 minutes until the roux turns a light golden color, but don’t let it brown.
3. Add the Milk and Cream: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while continuing to whisk. This helps prevent lumps and creates a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently. It should thicken up slightly and coat the back of a spoon.
4. Season the Sauce: Add salt, pepper, mustard powder, and garlic powder (if using). Adjust the seasoning to taste, but be careful not to over-salt, as the cheese will add additional saltiness.
5. Melt in the Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses a handful at a time, stirring constantly until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Lower the heat to prevent the cheese from burning or curdling.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every piece is coated in the sauce.
2. At this point, you can taste the mac and cheese mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
1. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until they are well-coated. This will give the breadcrumbs a golden, crispy texture when baked.
2. Stir in the Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor in the topping.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish.
3. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the top.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges.
5. If you like an extra-crispy topping, you can place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
1. Let the macaroni and cheese sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Tips for the Best Macaroni and Cheese
1. Use Quality Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice for mac and cheese, but feel free to mix in other cheeses for depth of flavor. Gruyère, fontina, or gouda are great options that melt well.
2. Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the creamiest sauce, shred your own cheese.
3. Season Gradually: Cheese varies in saltiness, so taste the sauce as you go and adjust accordingly.
4. Customize the Texture: If you like a looser sauce, add a bit more milk or cream. For a thicker sauce, reduce the milk by 1/2 cup.
Variations
1. Add Bacon: Cook and crumble 4-5 strips of bacon, then stir them into the mac and cheese or sprinkle them over the top.
2. Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a few dashes of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Vegetable Add-ins: Broccoli, spinach, or roasted red peppers make great additions for a veggie-packed version.
4. Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Stir in shredded cooked chicken and a few tablespoons of buffalo sauce for a tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Macaroni and cheese is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with:
• A simple green salad for balance
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans
Storage and Reheating
1. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheating: Mac and cheese can dry out when reheated, so add a splash of milk or cream before microwaving or reheating on the stovetop. Stir gently until creamy.
3. Freezing: To freeze, assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F, adding an additional 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 16-oz. package elbow macaroni, cooked
- 2 cups milk
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1 10-oz. block extra sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 tsp. ground red pepper optional
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare oven and pan:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Prepare pasta according to package directions. Grease a 2-qt. baking dish with cooking spray.
- Make roux:
- Microwave milk at HIGH for 1 1/2 minutes. Melt butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat; whisk in flour until smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute.
- Add cheese and pasta, then bake:
- Whisk in salt, black pepper, 1 cup shredded cheese, and, if desired, red pepper until smooth.
- Add pasta:
- Stir in hot cooked pasta. Spoon pasta mixture into prepared dish; top with remaining cheese.
- Bake macaroni and cheese:
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make It Ahead?
◦ Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking. Cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature, then bake as directed.
2. Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
◦ Substitute gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour in the roux. Make sure your breadcrumbs are also gluten-free.
3. Why is My Cheese Sauce Gritty?
◦ If your cheese sauce turns gritty, it’s often because the cheese was added to a sauce that was too hot. Lower the heat and add cheese gradually, allowing each addition to melt completely.
This macaroni and cheese recipe is deliciously creamy and comforting, perfect for gatherings, holidays, or any time you crave a warm and cheesy meal. Enjoy experimenting with different cheeses, toppings, and mix-ins to make this dish your own!