mac n cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
mac n cheese recipe
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The Best mac n cheese recipe

I’ve been making mac n cheese for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. My kids love it because it’s creamy and cheesy, and I love it because it’s easy to make and feeds a crowd.

This recipe is a classic, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The key to making great mac n cheese is to use high-quality ingredients, like real butter and good cheddar cheese.

I like to use a combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan for the best flavor. The pasta itself should be cooked just until it’s tender, then set aside while you make the cheese sauce.

This recipe makes a big batch of mac n cheese that’s perfect for a family of four or five. It’s also great for leftovers, which can be reheated in the oven or on the stovetop.

One of the best things about mac n cheese is that you can customize it to your taste by adding different ingredients, such as cooked bacon or steamed broccoli. My kids like it with a crispy topping, so I add some breadcrumbs and butter on top before baking.

The result is a golden-brown crust that’s crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese

Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese

4.8 from 664 votes

This classic mac and cheese recipe features a rich, creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Macaroni

12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tbsp (57g) unsalted butter
4 tbsp (32g) all-purpose flour
4 cups (946ml) whole milk
4 cups (450g) shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 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 the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
4In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color.
7Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
8Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and comes to a simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
9Remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
10Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
11Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the macaroni is evenly coated.
12If the sauce is too thick, add a little milk to reach your desired consistency.
13If the sauce is too thin, continue to simmer it over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens.
14Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a serving dish and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
15This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes the dish easier to serve.
16Then, serve the mac and cheese hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Saucepan
Whisk
Cheese grater

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

Watch Video Of How Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese Works

This mac n cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a comforting meal for your loved ones. It’s easy to make in large quantities and reheats well for leftovers.

For storage ideas, consider dividing leftovers into individual portions and freezing them for up to three months. When reheating, add some extra milk or cream if needed to maintain creaminess.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta is best for mac n cheese?

A: You can use any type of pasta you like, but I prefer to use macaroni or shells because they hold onto the cheese sauce so well. You can also use other shapes like elbows or rotini if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe up to a day in advance by assembling everything but baking it later. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Q: What if I don’t have any cheddar cheese?

A: You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack if that’s what you have on hand.

Q: How do I prevent the top from burning?

A: To prevent the top from burning, cover the dish with foil during baking or broil for just a minute or two until golden brown.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?

A: Yes, you can freeze this recipe after assembling everything but before baking. Thaw frozen mac n cheese overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

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