Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that everyone loves. This dish brings together creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, topped with a delightful crunchy breadcrumb layer. It’s perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or any occasion where you crave something warm and satisfying. Get ready to enjoy this classic dish that promises to bring joy to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Goodness: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and whole milk creates an irresistibly creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your Mac and Cheese by adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner with friends, this Mac and Cheese is sure to impress everyone.
• Comfort Food Classic: With its nostalgic flavors, this dish warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready will help you create this delicious Mac and Cheese without any delays.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Saucepan: Perfect for making the roux and cheese sauce, ensuring even heating.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 oz elbow macaroni

For the Cheese Sauce

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Topping

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

How to Make Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute.

Step 3: Add Milk

Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.

Step 6: Bake

Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with panko bread crumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Mac and Cheese!

How to Serve Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you prefer it as a side or the main feature, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve with a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Pair with grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty, protein-packed meal.

With Toppings

• Crispy Breadcrumbs: Add extra crunch on top by mixing panko with melted butter before baking.
• Vegetables: Stir in cooked broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

In Individual Portions

• Personal Servings: Bake in ramekins for individual servings, perfect for family gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect Mac and Cheese

Creating the ultimate Mac and Cheese requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is creamy and flavorful.

• Use Fresh Cheese: Grate cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded varieties for better melting.
• Add Seasoning: Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, or mustard powder into the cheese sauce for enhanced flavor.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Blend different types of cheese, like mozzarella and Monterey Jack, for depth of flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta al dente so it holds its shape and absorbs the cheese sauce without becoming mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Mac and Cheese

Pairing Mac and Cheese with the right side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious green that complements the richness of Mac and Cheese beautifully.
2. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread adds an excellent texture contrast.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides a refreshing crunch to balance the creaminess.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Season seasonal vegetables with herbs before roasting to enhance their natural sweetness.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with Caesar dressing offers a delightful crispness alongside your dish.
6. Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that brings warmth and comfort to any meal setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mac and Cheese, it’s easy to overlook some crucial steps that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch for.

• Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. For a smoother sauce, always use freshly grated cheese.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Neglecting to season: A lack of seasoning can result in bland Mac and Cheese. Ensure you season your pasta water and cheese sauce adequately.
• Skipping the roux: The roux is essential for a creamy texture. Don’t skip this step; cook the butter and flour properly before adding milk.
• Not baking long enough: Baking helps develop a crunchy topping. Keep an eye on the oven timer to ensure it turns golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
• Allow to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Mac and Cheese

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Wrap individual servings tightly with plastic wrap before placing them in containers.

Reheating Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over low flame, adding a splash of milk if necessary to loosen it up while stirring continuously.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cheese is best for Mac and Cheese?

The best cheeses are sharp cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Gruyère for added flavor. Freshly grated options work best for melting.

Can I add vegetables to my Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or peas can be mixed into the cheese sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is Mac and Cheese a good dish for meal prep?

Yes! Mac and Cheese stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prep throughout the week.

How do I make my Mac and Cheese extra creamy?

For extra creaminess, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded. You can also add cream or sour cream for richness.

Can I make gluten-free Mac and Cheese?

Yes! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour for the roux.

Final Thoughts

Mac and Cheese is not just a dish; it’s comfort food at its finest. Its creamy texture combined with cheesy goodness appeals to all ages. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients like veggies or different cheeses. Try this recipe today; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Mac and Cheese

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Mac and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to every meal. This creamy, cheesy dish combines perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with a rich cheddar cheese sauce, all topped with a crunchy panko breadcrumb layer for that delightful texture contrast. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up this classic favorite that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition, making it a dish everyone will adore.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the whole milk while whisking continuously until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with panko bread crumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 17g
• Cholesterol: 55mg