cheesy mac & cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cheesy mac & cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share this classic cheesy mac and cheese recipe with you. It’s a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s comforting, creamy, and ridiculously easy to make.

I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. Whether we’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, this mac and cheese never fails to impress.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is the way the pasta cooks perfectly in the cheesy sauce, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to customize with your favorite add-ins – from cooked bacon to steamed broccoli, the possibilities are endless.

And let’s not forget the health benefits – this recipe is made with whole wheat pasta and a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, making it a relatively guilt-free indulgence. As I always say, there’s no better comfort food than a warm bowl of mac and cheese on a chilly evening.

And with this recipe, you can have that any day of the week! My kids adore this dish almost as much as I do – they love helping me stir the sauce and watching it bubble up in the oven.

It’s truly a family favorite.

Classic Cheesy Mac & Cheese

4.8 from 1598 votes

A comforting classic dish featuring tender macaroni pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

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

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

12 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup breadcrumbs

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
5Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it turns a light brown color.
7Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
8Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
9The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
10Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese.
11Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
12Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
13Preheat the oven to 375°F.
14Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl, mixing well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
15Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
16Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
17Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
18Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Whisk
Baking dish
Oven

📊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. Add vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition.

Mac & cheese is a perfect dish for any occasion and it is always a good idea to make it for family gatherings. I love making it for family dinners, potlucks, or even quick weeknight meals. It is a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories.

You can make it ahead of time and reheat it for serving. It is a dish that is easy to make and can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. It is a dish that is perfect for a family gathering and it is a dish that is perfect for any occasion.

It is a dish that is perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or even a quick weeknight meal. It is a dish that is perfect for a family gathering. Store any leftover mac & cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little milk to help restore its creamy texture. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. It is a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Mac & Cheese

1. Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can experiment with various pasta shapes and sizes to find your favorite. Some popular options include shells, elbows, or even ziti.

2. What if I don’t have any cheddar cheese?

You can substitute other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack – just be aware that they may change the flavor profile slightly.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.

4. How do I ensure my mac and cheese doesn’t become too dry?

Add more milk or cream as needed during baking to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Can I add other ingredients like meat or vegetables?

Feel free to get creative with your add-ins – cooked meats like bacon or ham work beautifully, as do steamed veggies like broccoli or carrots.

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