Introduction

Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, loved by kids and adults alike. Whether you’re craving a quick stovetop version or a baked dish with a crispy breadcrumb topping, this recipe has you covered. With its rich, creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta, this mac and cheese is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like bacon, broccoli, or jalapeños. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe!

 

Recipe Details

– Prep Time: 10 minutes

– Cook Time: 20 minutes

– Total Time: 30 minutes

– Servings: 6

– Calories: 450 per serving

 

 

Ingredients

– 2 cups elbow macaroni

– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)

– 2 cups milk

– 3 tablespoons butter

– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for baked version)

– 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for breadcrumbs)

 

 

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

3. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

4. Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.

6. Optional Baking Step: For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

7. Serve: Enjoy hot, straight from the stovetop or oven!

 

 

Tips and Variations

– Add Protein: Mix in cooked bacon, ham, or grilled chicken for a heartier dish.

– Add Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition.

– Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

– Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

– Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

 

 

Serving Suggestions

Serve mac and cheese as a main dish or a side. It pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a classic combo, serve it alongside fried chicken or BBQ ribs.

 

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese? 

Yes! Try a mix of cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for extra flavor.

 

2. Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and bake it just before serving. Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it creamy.

 

3. How do I prevent the sauce from being grainy? 

Use freshly shredded cheese (not pre-shredded) and avoid overheating the sauce.

 

 

 

Conclusion

This creamy mac and cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or satisfying a comfort food craving, this dish is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to share your mac and cheese creations on social media and tag us—we’d love to see your take on this classic dish.

Looking for more comfort food? Try our fried chicken recipe!

Learn more about the history of mac and cheese here.