Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Name: Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Bread crumbs for topping (optional)

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

March 6, 2025

Updated:

March 6, 2025

Pin9

9 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Have you ever craved a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort? Macaroni and cheese does just that. This classic comfort food combines tender pasta with rich, creamy cheese sauce for an experience that teases your taste buds. The gooey texture paired with crispy edges creates a delightful contrast that makes every bite satisfying.

Imagine gathering around the dining table with loved ones, the aroma of freshly baked macaroni and cheese wafting through the air. It’s a dish that sparks joy at family gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a side at holiday feasts. With its versatility, you can customize it with various cheeses or toppings to suit your preferences. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor journey!

Why You’ll Love This Macaroni and Cheese

Comforting Classic: This macaroni and cheese recipe brings nostalgia with each creamy bite, making it a favorite for both kids and adults.
Quick Preparation: You can whip this dish up in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight meals or last-minute gatherings.
Customizable Options: Add your favorite ingredients like bacon or vegetables to create a unique twist on this classic dish.
Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the deliciousness the next day; reheating only enhances the flavors of this cheesy delight.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Macaroni and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Macaroni Pasta: Use elbow macaroni for classic shapes; choose whole grain for added nutrition.
Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to enhance the flavor; grate it fresh for best results.
Milk: Whole milk works best to create a creamy sauce; avoid skim milk as it reduces richness.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal; it allows you to control the saltiness of your dish.
Flour: All-purpose flour thickens the cheese sauce; use gluten-free flour if needed.

For the optional topping:

Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy topping after baking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Macaroni and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Boil Water

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add macaroni pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Step 2: Prepare Cheese Sauce

While pasta cooks, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then slowly add milk while stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 3: Add Cheese

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once pasta is cooked and drained, fold it into the cheese sauce until well-coated.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before placing the baking dish inside. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Transfer to plates and enjoy this comforting meal hot from the oven!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded versions which contain anti-caking agents.
Add Flavor Boosters: Try incorporating spices like paprika or mustard powder into your cheese sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different types of cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda can create unique flavor profiles.

Now you’re all set to create mouthwatering macaroni and cheese! Enjoy making this timeless favorite that everyone will adore!

Mistakes to avoid

Using the Wrong Pasta: One common mistake when making macaroni and cheese is choosing the wrong type of pasta. While traditional macaroni is a popular choice, various pasta shapes can significantly affect the dish’s texture and flavor. Use small shapes like elbow macaroni or shells that hold the cheese sauce well. Avoid larger pasta types, as they might not blend with the cheese sauce effectively and can lead to uneven distribution of flavors.
Skimping on Cheese: Another frequent error is not using enough cheese or settling for low-quality options. The key to a creamy, flavorful macaroni and cheese lies in the cheese selection. Choose a mix of cheeses for depth, such as sharp cheddar for bite and mozzarella for stretchiness. Skipping on quality will result in a bland dish that lacks that gooey goodness we all crave from genuine macaroni and cheese.
Neglecting Seasoning: Seasoning is often overlooked when preparing macaroni and cheese. Many assume that cheese alone provides enough flavor, but that’s not true. Always season your pasta water with salt before boiling it. Additionally, adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate your dish significantly. Neglecting proper seasoning can leave your macaroni and cheese tasting flat.

Ingredients

To make the perfect Macaroni and Cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

– 8 ounces of elbow macaroni

– 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

– 3 tablespoons of butter

– 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour

– 3 cups of milk

– 1/2 teaspoon of salt

– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional)

– Bread crumbs for topping (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Macaroni and Cheese:

1. Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux.

3. Gradually add the milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens.

4. Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.

5. Add salt, pepper, and paprika to taste, then mix in the cooked macaroni.

6. Pour the mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle with bread crumbs if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

This Macaroni and Cheese is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

- Grilled chicken: Tender grilled chicken complements the creamy texture.

- Steamed broccoli: A healthy side that adds color and nutrition.

Bacon bits: For those who enjoy a savory crunch on top.

FAQs

What type of cheese is best for Macaroni and Cheese?

The best cheese for Macaroni and Cheese is sharp cheddar due to its rich flavor. You can also mix it with other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for added creaminess. Each cheese brings a unique taste; combining them can elevate your dish further.

Can I make Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time. Simply cook it as directed, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

How do I make my Macaroni and Cheese creamy?

To ensure your Macaroni and Cheese remains creamy, use whole milk or cream instead of low-fat milk. Adding extra cheese while mixing also enhances creaminess. Baking it covered initially helps retain moisture during cooking.

Is Macaroni and Cheese suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze Macaroni and Cheese after cooking it. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion for Macaroni and Cheese

In summary, making homemade Macaroni and Cheese is simple yet rewarding. With just a few ingredients like elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, butter, and milk, you can create this comfort food classic that pleases both kids and adults alike. Feel free to customize your recipe by adding different cheeses or toppings to suit your taste. Whether served as a main dish or as a side alongside grilled meats or vegetables, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any meal gathering. Enjoy every creamy bite!