quick mac n cheese recipe

quick mac n cheese recipe

The Best quick mac n cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share my quick mac n cheese recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in my household for years, and it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

I remember my kids would always ask for mac n cheese on Fridays, and it was the perfect way to kick off the weekend. The creamy pasta, the crunchy breadcrumbs on top – it’s just a match made in heaven.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even on a weeknight when you’re short on time.

My family loves it because it’s comforting, yet it’s also relatively healthy compared to other comfort foods. We like to serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies! As an added bonus, this recipe is super versatile – you can customize it to your liking by adding different types of cheese, meats, or even some diced veggies if you’re feeling fancy.

But don’t worry if you’re not a big fan of experimenting; this classic recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Quick Mac n Cheese

Quick Mac n Cheese

4.8 from 578 votes

A simple and comforting classic dish that’s ready in under an hour. This quick mac n cheese recipe uses a creamy cheese sauce and is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
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 until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain the pasta 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, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a light brown color.
7Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
8Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly and begins to bubble around the edges.
9This should take about 3-5 minutes.
10Remove the saucepan from the heat.
11Add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
12Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
13Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.
14If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
15Serve the mac n cheese hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

Pot
Colander
Saucepan
Whisk
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 40mg🧂Sodium: 550mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 14g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier kick add red pepper flakes, or add some cooked bacon to the cheese sauce.

Watch Video Of How Quick Mac n Cheese Works

This quick mac n cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. One of my favorite things about this dish is how well it reheats – simply pop it back in the oven until warmed through and serve with some crusty bread or a side salad.

For storage ideas, consider freezing individual portions in an ice cube tray for easy reheat-and-eat meals later on. You can also store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Quick Mac n Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using a high-quality macaroni that’s not too thin or too thick. Elbow macaroni is a great choice because it holds onto the cheesy sauce perfectly.

Q: Can I use any type of cheese I want?

While you can experiment with different types of cheese, I find that a combination of cheddar and mozzarella works best. The sharpness of the cheddar pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the mozzarella.

Q: Do I have to add breadcrumbs on top?

Nope! If you’re short on time or don’t feel like adding extra steps, you can skip the breadcrumb topping altogether. However, if you want that crunchy texture on top, go for it!

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe up to 24 hours in advance by cooking the pasta and mixing it with the cheese sauce. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re using any store-bought cheeses that contain animal rennet (some brands do!), be sure to check your labels carefully.

Similar Posts