Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. It’s warm, creamy, and cheesy – everything you could want on a cold day or after a long week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this classic dish is always a hit. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients
- 500g elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, until top is golden and crispy.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations
Baked Mac and Cheese
To take your mac and cheese to the next level, bake it in the oven. After you’ve mixed the macaroni with the cheese sauce, transfer it to a greased baking dish and sprinkle extra cheese on top. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
Vegan Mac and Cheese
If you’re looking for a vegan version of mac and cheese, you can swap in some vegan ingredients. Use a plant-based milk, such as almond or soy, and vegan cheese substitutes. Nutritional yeast is a great option for adding a cheesy flavor without using dairy.
Add-ins
Mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite add-ins. Try adding cooked bacon, diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped broccoli to your mac and cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Spicy Mac and Cheese
For a little kick, add some spice to your mac and cheese. You can mix in some diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for a spicy twist on this classic dish.
Mac and cheese is a classic dish that never goes out of style. With this easy recipe, you can make a delicious and comforting meal in no time. Whether you stick to the classic version or try out some fun variations, mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser.
FAQ
Can I use any type of pasta for Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta for Mac and Cheese. However, we recommend using elbow macaroni or shell pasta as they are the most traditional types of pasta used in this dish.
Can I use any type of cheese?
You can use any type of cheese for Mac and Cheese, but we recommend using cheddar cheese as it is the most traditional type of cheese used in this dish. However, you can experiment with other types of cheese to give the dish a unique twist.
Can I make Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Mac and Cheese ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you are baking it from the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze Mac and Cheese. Simply assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you are ready to cook it, remove the plastic wrap and aluminum foil and bake it in the oven.
Can I add vegetables to Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can add vegetables to Mac and Cheese. Some popular options include broccoli, peas, and cauliflower. Simply cook the vegetables separately and then mix them into the pasta and cheese sauce before baking.
Can I make Mac and Cheese without milk?
Yes, you can make Mac and Cheese without milk. You can substitute the milk with water or cream, or you can try using a non-dairy milk like almond milk or soy milk.
How can I make Mac and Cheese healthier?
To make Mac and Cheese healthier, you can use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta. You can also use low-fat milk and cheese, and add vegetables to the dish to increase its nutritional value.
How long does it take to cook Mac and Cheese?
It typically takes about 25-30 minutes to cook Mac and Cheese in the oven. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the type of pasta and cheese you are using.
Can I add meat to Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can add meat to Mac and Cheese. Some popular options include bacon, ham, and ground beef. Simply cook the meat separately and then mix it into the pasta and cheese sauce before baking.
Can I make Mac and Cheese in the microwave?
Yes, you can make Mac and Cheese in the microwave. Simply follow the cooking instructions on the package of pasta and then mix in the cheese sauce. Microwave the dish on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
