basic mac n cheese recipe

basic mac n cheese recipe

The Best basic mac n cheese recipe

Macaroni and cheese, a classic comfort food that never fails to bring a smile to my face. As a busy mom, I’ve made this recipe countless times for my family, and it’s always a hit.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, mac n cheese is the perfect solution. I love how easy it is to make, and the best part is that it’s a great way to get my kids to eat their veggies.

By adding steamed broccoli or carrots to the cheese sauce, they’re getting in some extra nutrients without even realizing it. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese.

A good cheddar or a blend of cheddar and parmesan will give you the best flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.

This recipe is a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. One of the things I love about mac n cheese is its versatility.

You can serve it as a main dish or as a side, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need something quick and easy for the family, mac n cheese is always a good idea.

Basic Mac N Cheese

Basic Mac N Cheese

4.8 from 1279 votes

A comforting classic dish made with elbow macaroni in a creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4The macaroni should be tender but still firm to the bite.
5In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
6Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns light brown and has a nutty aroma.
8Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly and begins to bubble around the edges.
10Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
11Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
12Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
13Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in the pot.
14Stir well to ensure the macaroni is evenly coated.
15If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
16Serve the mac n cheese immediately while hot.
17Garnish with additional shredded cheese or chopped parsley if desired.
18Enjoy your creamy and comforting dish.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Saucepan
Whisk
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

This basic mac n cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something special for your family gatherings.

The best part about this recipe is its simplicity – just cook some pasta, mix in your favorite cheeses with some milk and butter until smooth and creamy then pour over cooked pasta and bake until golden brown!

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days – just reheat when needed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Mac N Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for macaroni and cheese?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use elbow macaroni or another short shape that holds onto the cheese sauce well. Avoid using long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine, as they won’t hold up to the sauce as well.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

A: Yes, you can experiment with various types of cheese to find your favorite combination. Cheddar and parmesan are classic choices, but you can also try other options like gouda or provolone for a unique flavor.

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

A: To prevent mushy macaroni, make sure not to overcook it in the first place. Cook it until it’s al dente, then let it cool before adding it to the cheese sauce. This will help preserve its texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time by cooking the pasta and making the cheese sauce separately. Then, assemble everything just before baking for an easy weeknight dinner.

Q: Is there anything I can add to make this recipe healthier?

A: Yes, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier while still maintaining its rich flavor. Consider adding some steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots to increase the nutritional value of your meal.

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free options if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.

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