Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that is loved by people of all ages. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. This recipe is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 400g elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir until smooth.
- Gradually add milk, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted.
- Add cooked macaroni to the saucepan and stir until the macaroni is evenly coated with cheese sauce.
- Transfer macaroni and cheese to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Follow the instructions above, but instead of serving it immediately, transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish and bake it in the oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Spicy Macaroni and Cheese: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce to give it a spicy kick.
- Truffle Macaroni and Cheese: Add a few drops of truffle oil to the cheese sauce to give it a luxurious and earthy flavor.
- Vegan Macaroni and Cheese: Replace the butter and cheese with vegan substitutes and use almond or soy milk instead of regular milk.
- Gluten-Free Macaroni and Cheese: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour to make the cheese sauce.
Macaroni and cheese is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you like it spicy, creamy, or baked, there’s a macaroni and cheese recipe out there for you. So, go ahead and experiment with different ingredients and cooking methods until you find your perfect macaroni and cheese recipe.
FAQ
What type of cheese should I use for Macaroni and Cheese?
You can use any type of cheese that melts well, but cheddar cheese is the most commonly used cheese for this recipe.
Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, you can use skim milk instead of whole milk. However, using whole milk will result in a creamier and richer mac and cheese.
Can I make Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can make mac and cheese ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave. However, the texture may change and it may become more dry.
Can I add vegetables to my Macaroni and Cheese?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as broccoli or peas to your mac and cheese to make it a more nutritious and balanced meal.
Can I use gluten-free pasta for Macaroni and Cheese?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta for this recipe. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.
Can I make Macaroni and Cheese without baking it?
Yes, you can make stovetop mac and cheese without baking it. Just cook the pasta and cheese sauce on the stove until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of macaroni?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like for this recipe, but smaller shapes like elbow macaroni work best.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of shredding it myself?
Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese instead of shredding it yourself. However, freshly grated cheese will melt better and result in a creamier texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using non-dairy milk, vegan butter, and vegan cheese alternatives. You can also use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor.
Can I freeze Macaroni and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
