simple macaroni and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
simple macaroni and cheese recipe
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The Best simple macaroni and cheese recipe

Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food dish that has been a staple in many American households for generations. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The dish originated in Italy, where it was known as ‘maccheroni al formaggio,’ but it has been adapted and modified over time to become the creamy, cheesy casserole we know and love today. I love this recipe because it’s easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it accessible to anyone who wants to cook a delicious meal for their family.

My kids adore this dish, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings and potlucks. Plus, macaroni and cheese is a great way to get kids to eat vegetables, as you can hide finely chopped veggies like spinach or carrots in the cheese sauce without them even noticing.

One of the key techniques to making a great macaroni and cheese is to use high-quality cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, and to cook the pasta until it’s al dente before adding it to the cheese sauce. This helps the pasta hold onto the sauce better and prevents it from becoming too mushy.

Overall, macaroni and cheese is a timeless classic that never goes out of style, and this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household just like it has been in mine.

Simple Macaroni and Cheese

Simple Macaroni and Cheese

4.7 from 1596 votes

A classic comfort food dish featuring tender macaroni pasta coated in a creamy cheese sauce. This simple macaroni and cheese recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Macaroni

12 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4Drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
5While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
6Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns light brown and bubbles slightly.
7This is your roux.
8Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes.
10Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper.
11Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
12Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the macaroni is well coated.
13If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of milk to reach your desired consistency.
14Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
15Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a serving dish.
16Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your simple macaroni and cheese.

🔧Equipment

Medium pot
Saucepan
Whisk
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer flavor, use whole milk or add a bit of cream cheese to the sauce. You can also experiment with different cheese blends, such as adding mozzarella or Gouda.

Watch Video Of How Simple Macaroni and Cheese Works

This simple macaroni and cheese recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next potluck. The best part about this recipe is that you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients and adjust the level of creaminess to your liking.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can reheat leftovers – simply pop them in the microwave or oven until they’re hot and bubbly. For added convenience, consider storing leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3 days or freezing them for up to 2 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Macaroni and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

The best type of pasta to use for macaroni and cheese is elbow macaroni or cavatappi, as they have nooks and crannies that help trap the cheese sauce.

Q: Can I use low-fat or fat-free cheese in this recipe?

While you can use low-fat or fat-free cheese in this recipe, keep in mind that it may affect the flavor and texture of the dish.

Q: How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy?

To prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy, cook it until it’s al dente before adding it to the cheese sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can make the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is suitable for vegetarians, but be sure to check the ingredients of any store-bought cheese you use to ensure that it’s vegetarian-friendly.

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