Introduction
Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food that transcends generations. This creamy, cheesy delight offers an ideal blend of textures with its rich sauce enveloping tender pasta, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb elbow macaroni
1 teaspoon ground mustard
2 tablespoons flour
2-3 slices white bread, toasted
1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
7 tablespoons butter, divided
1/2 cup whole milk
1 1/2 pounds cheddar cheese, grated
8 ounces American, Gruyere, or any other smooth melting cheese, grated or cut into chunks
2 eggs, beaten
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
This macaroni and cheese recipe delivers a rich and savory dish that is sure to become a household favorite. With simple yet comforting ingredients, it brings the warmth of home cooking straight to your table. Perfect for any occasion, this dish invites you to savor each cheesy bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Cook Macaroni
Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make Roux
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the flour and ground mustard, whisking continuously to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture is golden and smooth.
Step 4: Add Milk
Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk and whole milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheese
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated cheddar and American (or Gruyere) cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Temper Eggs
In a separate bowl, temper the beaten eggs by slowly adding a small amount of the hot cheese sauce while whisking constantly. Once tempered, pour the egg mixture back into the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
Step 7: Mix Macaroni and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 8: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
Step 9: Make Breadcrumbs
In a food processor, pulse the toasted white bread slices to create breadcrumbs.
Step 10: Prepare Topping
Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and mix with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
Step 11: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 12: Cool Before Serving
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Cooking Time
Keep an eye on the macaroni and cheese as it bakes, checking for the desired golden color and doneness.
Cheese Options
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavor and texture.
Breadcrumbs
For a crispier topping, ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated in butter before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water. This technique ensures the pasta is tender while maintaining a firm texture (al dente) necessary for mac and cheese.
Making a Roux
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour and ground mustard to create a roux. Cooking the roux for about 2 minutes until golden helps to thicken your cheese sauce.
Thickening the Sauce
Gradually add evaporated milk and whole milk to the roux while whisking continuously. This technique prevents lumps and ensures a creamy consistency in your cheese sauce.
Melting Cheese
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in grated cheddar and other cheeses until fully melted. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and cheesy sauce.
Tempering Eggs
Slowly add a small amount of hot cheese sauce to the beaten eggs while whisking to prevent curdling. This process helps to incorporate eggs into the sauce without scrambling them.
Coating Pasta
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. This technique helps to distribute flavors throughout the dish.
Creating Breadcrumb Topping
Pulse toasted bread in a food processor to make breadcrumbs. Mixing these with melted butter ensures a crispy and flavorful topping for baked macaroni and cheese.
Baking
Bake the assembled dish in a preheated oven until the top is golden brown and cheese is bubbly. This technique allows the flavors to meld and the texture to become crispy.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or even a smoked cheese for added flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
You can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
You can substitute evaporated milk with a mixture of whole milk and heavy cream (mixed in a 1:1 ratio) to achieve a similar richness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy and cheesy macaroni dish is a comforting classic that is sure to impress family and friends. The combination of cheddar and smooth melting cheese creates a rich sauce that perfectly coats the pasta, while the buttery breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this recipe is one that everyone will love.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon
Add crispy, crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce for a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
Sundried Tomato and Spinach Mac and Cheese
Incorporate chopped sundried tomatoes and fresh spinach for a burst of flavor and added nutrition.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Mix in shredded cooked chicken and buffalo sauce for a spicy twist on the traditional recipe.
Mac and Cheese with Broccoli
Steam broccoli florets and fold them into the macaroni and cheese for a healthy and vibrant option.
Truffle Mac and Cheese
Drizzle truffle oil over the finished dish for a touch of luxury that enhances the cheesy goodness.
