Indulge in a dish that brings comfort to your dinner table: creamy mac and cheese. This classic recipe is a delightful blend of pasta and a velvety cheese sauce that melts in your mouth. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this mac and cheese is sure to please everyone. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 450 calories, 20g of fat, 50g of carbohydrates, and 15g of protein. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour, garlic powder, and onion powder; cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce; mix well.
- Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.
- Optional: sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute sharp cheddar cheese with other cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for different flavors. Additionally, use almond milk or soy milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
Serving and Pairings
Creamy mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a crisp salad, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat thoroughly.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not cooking the pasta al dente can result in mushy mac and cheese.
- Using low-quality cheese may affect the flavor and creaminess.
- Adding too much flour can make the sauce too thick.
- Not stirring the cheese sauce enough can lead to lumps.
- Skipping the baking step can result in a less textured dish.
Helpful Tips
- Grate your cheese fresh for better melting.
- Try adding cooked bacon or vegetables for extra flavor.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex taste.
- Don’t rush the cheese sauce; let it thicken properly.
FAQs
Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What cheese is best for mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice for its flavor. Mixing it with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack adds depth.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegetarian. Just ensure that the cheese used is suitable for vegetarians.
How can I add more flavor to my mac and cheese?
Consider adding spices like smoked paprika, or mix in sautéed onions, garlic, or jalapeños for extra kick.
Conclusion
With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this mac and cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal or a delightful side dish, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Creamy Mac And Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour, garlic powder, and onion powder; cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce; mix well.
- Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.
- Optional: sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
