Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a comforting, creamy dish that brings back childhood memories, look no further than this delicious homemade macaroni and cheese recipe. With a blend of various cheeses and a perfectly baked top, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. From its cheesy goodness to its buttery flavor, it’s a hearty meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 16 ounces dry elbow pasta
– 4 tablespoons salted butter (½ stick)
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour
– 2½ cups milk
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1½ cups freshly grated yellow cheddar cheese, divided
– 1½ cups freshly grated white cheddar cheese, divided
– 8 slices American cheese, diced
– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ cup freshly grated Romano cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
This recipe is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese with friends and family!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the dry elbow pasta and cook it until it’s just shy of al dente according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a medium pot, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Add Milk and Seasoning
Slowly whisk in 2½ cups of milk along with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring often, until it thickens, which should take around 4-5 minutes.
Incorporate the Cheeses
Gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated yellow cheddar cheese, 1 cup of freshly grated white cheddar cheese, all 8 slices of diced American cheese, ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and ½ cup of freshly grated Romano cheese into the thickened sauce. Stir until all the cheeses are fully melted and smoothly combined.
Combine with Pasta
Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring that the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Once well combined, transfer this mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup each of yellow cheddar cheese and white cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture in the baking dish.
Bake the Dish
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
Pasta Cooking Tips
Ensure that the pasta is slightly undercooked to maintain the right texture after baking.
Cheese Varieties
Feel free to customize the types of cheese used in the recipe based on personal preference, but ensure some form of melting cheese is included for optimum creaminess.
Storage Instructions
Leftover macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Baking Time Variance
Keep an eye on the baking progress, as oven temperatures may vary, potentially altering cooking times.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil is essential for cooking elbow pasta. The salt enhances the pasta’s flavor, and boiling ensures even cooking. Cook until just shy of al dente for the best texture after baking.
Making a Roux
Melt butter and whisk in flour over medium-low heat to create a roux. This technique helps thicken your cheese sauce, adding depth and a creamy consistency when milk is slowly incorporated.
Creating Cheese Sauce
Gradually whisk in milk, salt, and pepper to the roux, cooking until thickened. Adding cheeses gradually ensures they melt smoothly into the sauce without clumping.
Mixing Pasta and Sauce
Gently fold the cooked pasta into your cheese sauce. This step should be done carefully to coat the pasta evenly without breaking the elbows, preserving their shape.
Baking the Dish
Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a prepared baking dish. Topping with additional cheese before baking creates a bubbly, golden crust, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow pasta with other shapes like penne or shells, but adjust cooking times as needed.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
You may use other melting cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend of your favorites, keeping the texture and flavor in mind.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add spice, consider incorporating ingredients like cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce into your cheese sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish is a comforting classic that brings together multiple layers of cheesy goodness. The combination of yellow and white cheddar, along with American, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses, creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile. Baking it until bubbly adds a delightful texture, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or a cozy family meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon
Add crispy bacon bits to the macaroni and cheese mixture before baking for a smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Vegetable Macaroni and Cheese
Incorporate steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas into the pasta before baking for a nutritious twist and added color.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Mix in shredded cooked chicken and buffalo sauce to give your macaroni and cheese a spicy kick that’s perfect for game day.
Lobster Macaroni and Cheese
Add chunks of cooked lobster to the cheese sauce for a luxurious version that elevates the traditional recipe.
Macaroni and Cheese with Truffle Oil
Drizzle some truffle oil over the macaroni and cheese before baking for an earthy and gourmet touch.
