mac and cheese simple recipe

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

Mac 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 enjoyed by people of all ages.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to make and customize to suit my family’s tastes. My kids love it because it’s creamy, cheesy, and always served hot.

In fact, mac and cheese has become a regular feature in our household, whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a holiday meal. One of the reasons I love this recipe so much is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can add different types of cheese, meats, and vegetables to make it your own.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch, even for those who don’t consider themselves experienced cooks. The key to making a great mac and cheese is using high-quality ingredients, including sharp cheddar cheese and real butter.

I also like to add some spice with red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Overall, mac and cheese is a comforting, delicious dish that never fails to put a smile on my family’s faces.

Simple Mac and Cheese

4.6 from 1417 votes

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

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups 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
1/4 tsp garlic powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
4While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
5Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns light brown and gives off a slightly nutty aroma.
6This is known as a roux.
7Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
8Cook the mixture for 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
9Add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder and stir to combine.
10Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
11If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
12Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
13If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more milk.
14If the sauce is too thin, cook it over medium heat for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until it reaches the desired consistency.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Whisk
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 17g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier mac and cheese, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also mix in cooked vegetables or proteins like bacon or chicken for added flavor and nutrition.

This simple mac and cheese recipe never fails to impress my family with its creamy texture and rich flavors.

For storage purposes, I recommend letting it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing – then reheat as needed in individual portions or as a whole casserole.

When reheating leftovers in the microwave or oven, be sure to cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap to prevent overcooking.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of cheese is best for mac and cheese?

For a classic mac and cheese flavor, you’ll want to use a combination of cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Cheddar provides the sharpness and richness, while parmesan adds a salty depth. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda if you prefer.

Q: Can I use boxed macaroni for this recipe?

While boxed macaroni can be convenient, I highly recommend using fresh pasta for the best results. Fresh pasta has a more delicate texture and better absorbs the cheesy sauce. If you’re short on time or prefer the ease of boxed pasta, feel free to use it – just be aware that the texture might not be as ideal.

Q: How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming too soggy?

To avoid sogginess, make sure to cook your pasta al dente (slightly firm in the center) before mixing it with the cheese sauce. Also, don’t overmix the sauce – stop once you’ve combined the ingredients without any visible lumps.

Q: Can I add protein like bacon or ham to this recipe?

Bacon or ham are great additions to mac and cheese – simply chop them into small pieces before adding them to the pasta mixture.

Q: Is there anything special I should do before serving this dish?

Before serving, consider topping your mac and cheese with some crispy breadcrumbs or croutons for added crunch – this elevates the dish from simple comfort food to something more gourmet.

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