mac amd cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best mac amd cheese recipe

I’m a huge fan of mac and cheese, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s one of those comfort foods that never fails to put a smile on my kids’ faces.

I remember making it for the first time when I was in college, and I was hooked. The creamy sauce, the perfect balance of cheddar and parmesan, and the way it all comes together in a delightful harmony of flavors…

it’s just magic. My family loves it when I make it for dinner, and I love how easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to get some extra veggies into our meals – just add some steamed broccoli or carrots on the side and you’re good to go! As a bonus, this recipe is incredibly versatile – you can make it as simple or as fancy as you like, depending on your mood and the occasion.

And let’s not forget about the leftovers… they’re always a welcome treat in our house.

Classic Mac and Cheese

4.8 from 1406 votes

A comforting classic with a creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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

🥘Ingredients

Macaroni

2 cups elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Breading

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳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.
4In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a light golden color and smells slightly nutty.
7Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
8Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly and begins to bubble around the edges.
9This should take about 5-7 minutes.
10Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
11Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
12Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.
13Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish.
14In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
Mix well.
15Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
16Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
17Bake the macaroni and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly around the edges.
18Remove the macaroni and cheese from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
19This allows the cheese sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Baking dish
Oven

📊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. Add vegetables like peas or broccoli for added nutrition.

In conclusion, this mac and cheese recipe is an absolute must-have for any occasion – whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special event with friends. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with nutrients (thanks to those sneaky veggies), and adaptable to your taste preferences.

And let’s not forget about the leftovers… trust me when I say that you’ll be enjoying this comforting dish for days to come!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for mac and cheese?

For this recipe, I recommend using elbow macaroni or cavatappi – they both have a nice shape that holds onto the cheesy sauce perfectly.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various combinations of cheddar, parmesan, mozzarella, or even gouda – just be sure to adjust the amount of milk accordingly.

Q: How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming too sticky?

To avoid this issue, try adding a little more milk or using a combination of grated cheeses that melt well.

Q: Can I make this recipe without breadcrumbs?

No problem! Simply omit them altogether or substitute with crushed crackers if you prefer.

Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This recipe is surprisingly quick – you can have it ready in under 30 minutes!

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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