simple mac cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best simple mac cheese recipe

I’ve been making this simple mac cheese recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. The dish originated in North America, where it was popularized in the mid-20th century as a comfort food. It’s a classic combination of macaroni pasta, cheese sauce, and various toppings.

The key to making a great mac cheese is using high-quality ingredients and following a few simple techniques. For instance, using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese gives the dish a rich and creamy flavor. I also like to add some cooked bacon or ham for added smokiness.

The technique of using a roux to thicken the cheese sauce is crucial, as it prevents the sauce from becoming too thin or runny. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Thanksgiving. My kids love it because it’s easy to customize with their favorite toppings, and I love it because it’s quick to make and feeds our whole family.

We’ve had this recipe for so long that my kids have grown up eating it, and now they’re starting to make it themselves. It’s amazing how something so simple can become such a big part of our lives. The health benefits of this recipe are also worth noting – the complex carbohydrates in the pasta provide sustained energy, while the cheese provides calcium and protein.

Overall, this simple mac cheese recipe is a classic for a reason – it’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for any occasion.

Simple Mac and Cheese

4.7 from 646 votes

This classic mac and cheese recipe is creamy, comforting, and easy to make. It features a simple cheese sauce and elbow macaroni.

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

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 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 and set aside.
4The pasta should be slightly firm to the bite and not mushy.
5While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
6Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
7This step is called making a roux, and it should be a light golden color.
8Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly and begins to bubble gently.
10This should take about 5 minutes.
11Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
12Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
13Stir well to combine.
14The sauce should be velvety and well-seasoned.
15Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
16If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
17The pasta should be well coated and the sauce should be creamy.
18Serve the mac and cheese hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or chopped fresh herbs if desired.
19Enjoy your creamy and comforting mac and cheese immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Wooden spoon
Colander

📊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. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.

Watch Video Of How Simple Mac and Cheese Works

This simple mac cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. I always make it when I want a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or when I need to feed a crowd at a family gathering.

I love that its budget-friendly and uses ingredients that I usually have on hand. Its a great dish to bring to a potluck or to serve at a holiday gathering.

Just make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat it in the oven or on the stove to keep the sauce creamy and velvety.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mac and Cheese

What type of pasta should I use for mac cheese?

I recommend using a short pasta shape like elbow macaroni or shells. These shapes hold onto the cheesy sauce better than longer shapes like spaghetti or linguine.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination. Some popular options include cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, and gouda.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, you can add a little bit of milk or cream towards the end of cooking time.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the pasta and cheese sauce ahead of time, but be sure to assemble and bake the mac cheese just before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but be sure to check if any of your guests have dietary restrictions related to dairy products.

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