mac and cheese dinner recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best mac and cheese dinner recipe

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food dish that has been a staple in many American households for generations. I have fond memories of my grandmother making it for me when I was a child, and now I make it for my own kids.

The combination of the creamy cheese sauce, the al dente pasta, and the crispy crust on top is just perfect. It’s a dish that evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, mac and cheese is always a good idea. One of the best things about mac and cheese is that it’s incredibly easy to make.

You can customize it with different types of pasta, cheese, and add-ins to suit your taste. And the best part?

It’s ready in about 30 minutes! The key to making great mac and cheese is to use high-quality ingredients, including real butter, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar cheese.

Don’t be tempted to skimp on the cheese – it’s what makes this dish so rich and indulgent. A good mac and cheese recipe should have a nice balance of flavors and textures, with a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumbs on top.

Classic Mac and Cheese Dinner

4.8 from 1672 votes

A comforting classic, this mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and perfect for a family dinner. It features a homemade cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

12 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain and set aside.
5In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
6Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to bubble slightly and turn light brown.
8Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly and begins to bubble, 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.
12In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce.
13Stir until the macaroni is well coated.
14Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
15In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
16Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
17Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling around the edges.
18Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
19This allows the cheese sauce to settle and makes it easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Mixing bowl
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: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. You can also add cooked vegetables or proteins like chicken or bacon to make it a heartier meal.

Watch Video Of How Classic Mac and Cheese Dinner Works

This classic macaroni and cheese recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort from you. Simply cook your pasta according to package instructions, mix together your cheesy goodness (I like to use sharp cheddar), combine them all in one glorious casserole dish (topped with some crispy breadcrumbs), pop it in the oven until golden brown – voila!

You’ll have a beautiful dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters (my kids are notorious for rejecting anything green). Store leftovers in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently until warm throughout; serve hot.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mac and Cheese Dinner

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

The type of pasta you choose will affect the overall texture of your macaroni and cheese. Traditionally, elbow macaroni is used, but you can also try other shapes like shells or cavatappi for a fun twist.

Q: Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can make mac and cheese ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the casserole just before baking. If you’re short on time, you can prepare the pasta and cheese mixture up to a day in advance, then refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q: How do I prevent the crust from getting too brown?

To prevent the crust from getting too brown, cover the top with foil during baking. This will help retain moisture and prevent overcooking.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to my mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Some popular add-ins include cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables like broccoli or carrots. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations.

Q: Is there a healthier version of macaroni and cheese?

You can make a healthier version by using whole wheat pasta instead of regular white pasta, reducing the amount of butter used in the recipe, or adding some extra veggies like steamed broccoli on top.

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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