Introduction
Get ready for a creamy, cheesy delight that will please both kids and adults alike! This homemade macaroni and cheese recipe combines a variety of cheeses for a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy cheese topping and a smooth, velvety sauce, this classic comfort food will become a family favorite.
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
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves approximately 8-10 people
Enjoy this delectable mac and cheese recipe, which is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Perfect as a side dish or a standalone meal, it’s a classic that never goes out of style!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow pasta until just shy of al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes, whisking constantly.
Step 4: Add Milk and Seasoning
Slowly whisk in the milk, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce has thickened, about 4-5 minutes, stirring often.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheeses
Gradually add 1 cup of yellow cheddar, 1 cup of white cheddar, all of the American cheese, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses to the sauce, stirring until all the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup each of yellow and white cheddar cheeses over the top.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Cheese Options
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
Note 2: Pasta Cooking Time
Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Note 3: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 4: Reheating Instructions
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the dry elbow pasta. It’s essential to cook the pasta until it’s just shy of al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking. Drain and set aside to prevent sticking.
Making a Roux
Melt salted butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for approximately 5 minutes. This process helps to create a thick base for the cheese sauce.
Creating Cheese Sauce
Slowly whisk in milk, kosher salt, and black pepper into the roux. Cook while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Gradually add grated cheeses, stirring until they fully melt and combine into the sauce.
Combining Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, making sure to stir thoroughly. This ensures that the pasta is well coated in the rich cheese mixture.
Baking
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a pre-prepared baking dish. Top with remaining shredded cheeses and bake in a preheated oven until bubbly and slightly browned, about 20 minutes.
Cooling Before Serving
After baking, allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes. This step helps the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow pasta with other pasta shapes like shells, penne, or fusilli, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it necessary to grate the cheese myself?
While pre-grated cheese can be used, grating cheese fresh will yield a creamier texture and better melting qualities.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead and keep it in the fridge before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What if I don’t have all the cheeses listed?
Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on availability or preference. Cheddar and American are common choices, but you can experiment with others like gouda or mozzarella.
How can I make it spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating ingredients like diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce into the cheese sauce. Adjust to taste.
Conclusion
This creamy, cheesy baked macaroni is a delightful comfort food that brings together a blend of rich flavors from various cheeses, creating a sumptuous dish everyone will love. Its golden, bubbly top and satisfying texture make it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or as a delicious leftover.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Mac and Cheese
Add diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a spicy twist.
Sausage and Pepper Mac and Cheese
Incorporate cooked Italian sausage and sautéed bell peppers into the mac and cheese before baking for added heartiness.
Veggie Lover’s Mac and Cheese
Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted cauliflower for a nutritious boost.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Combine shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce into the cheese mix for a tangy, flavor-packed dish.
Truffle Mac and Cheese
Drizzle truffle oil on top before baking for an elegant upgrade to this classic recipe.
Mac and Cheese with Bacon
Fold in crispy, crumbled bacon to add a smoky flavor that complements the cheeses beautifully.
