Indulge in the ultimate comfort dish with our Classic Homemade Mac and Cheese. This recipe brings together rich, creamy cheddar and perfectly cooked macaroni for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or need a quick and delicious dinner option, this homemade mac and cheese promises to deliver both comfort and flavor. It’s an all-time favorite that pleases both kids and adults alike, making it a must-try for any cheese lover!
Classic Homemade Mac and Cheese
Ultimate Comfort Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Directions:
- Cook macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and 3 cups of cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Pour the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Kcal: 580 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Notes:
- Cheese Varieties: You can experiment with different types of cheese for various flavors. Mix in some Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese for a more complex taste.
- Baking Dish: Using a shallow baking dish will ensure that you get plenty of that delicious crispy top that everyone loves. If you prefer a softer texture, use a deeper dish.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the regular elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour for the roux.
- Adding Extras: Feel free to add cooked bacon, diced ham, broccoli, or peas to the mac and cheese to add extra flavor and texture.
FAQs:
- Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Bake it just before you are ready to serve to ensure it’s hot and bubbly.
- What is the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the oven will help maintain a better texture.
- Can I freeze homemade mac and cheese? Yes, you can freeze it either baked or unbaked. If unbaked, wrap it tightly and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Baked leftovers can be frozen in individual portions for easy reheating.
- Why is my sauce grainy? A grainy sauce can result from the cheese being overcooked on too high heat. Always melt cheese over low heat and do not boil the sauce once the cheese has been added.
- Can I use pre-shredded cheese? While convenient, pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect the smoothness of your sauce. For the best results, shred cheese off the block just before using.
- Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs? Breadcrumbs add a nice crunch and texture contrast but can be omitted if you prefer a purely creamy top.
If you have any more questions or need further customization tips, feel free to ask!