allrecipes mac and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best allrecipes mac and cheese recipe

I have been making this Allrecipes mac and cheese recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family.

The dish is a classic comfort food that never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face.

I love how the creamy cheese sauce coats every bite of the pasta, and the crunchy breadcrumbs on top add a nice textural element.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it’s easy to make and feeds a crowd.

Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other mac and cheese recipes I’ve tried, thanks to the use of whole wheat pasta and reduced-fat cheese.

Allrecipes Mac and Cheese

Allrecipes Mac and Cheese

4.7 from 980 votes

A rich and creamy macaroni and cheese dish with a crispy golden top. This classic comfort food is perfect for family dinners.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp flour
4 cups whole milk
8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

For the Topping

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter

👨‍🍳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 the pasta in a colander and set aside.
4Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
5In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
6Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color.
8Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
10Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and fully incorporated.
11Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
12Remove from heat.
13In a baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and the cheese sauce.
14Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
15In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
16Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
17Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
18Remove the macaroni and cheese from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
19This allows the cheese sauce to settle and makes it easier to portion.
20Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Saucepan
Whisk
Wooden spoon
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 add cooked vegetables like peas or broccoli to the pasta for added nutrition. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.

Watch Video Of How Allrecipes Mac and Cheese Works

This Allrecipes mac and cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a comforting meal, this recipe delivers.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s easy to customize – you can add your favorite mix-ins like cooked bacon or steamed broccoli – making it perfect for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Allrecipes Mac and Cheese

Q1: What type of pasta is best for mac and cheese?

For this recipe, I recommend using a medium-sized pasta shape like elbow macaroni or cavatappi.

Q2: Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different combinations of cheeses, such as cheddar and mozzarella or Parmesan and Gruyère.

Q3: Why does this recipe use whole wheat pasta?

Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber and nutrients to the dish compared to regular white pasta.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q5: How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming too dry?

To prevent dryness, make sure not to overcook the pasta, and add more milk or cream if needed to achieve the right consistency.

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