Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe

Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe Easy

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe. This classic dish, perfect for serving four hungry souls, is a celebration of creamy, cheesy goodness and childhood nostalgia. With its tender pasta and velvety cheese sauce, this mac and cheese is a delightful, homestyle masterpiece that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Join us as we dive into the art of making this beloved dish from scratch.

Table of Contents

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk for creamier results)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs (for topping, optional)
Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe
Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe

Process:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni or your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce 2. In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

  1. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a smooth roux. Cook for a minute or two, whisking constantly.
  2. Gradually add the milk while continuing to whisk the mixture. Cook until it thickens and becomes a creamy base.
  3. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce, reserving a small portion for topping. Stir until the cheese melts, and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
  4. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce 7. Combine the cooked pasta and the cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Gently fold them together until the pasta is well coated with the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Bake the Mac and Cheese (Optional) 8. If you prefer baked mac and cheese, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheddar cheese and bread crumbs on top for a crispy, golden crust.

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mac and cheese for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy 10. Allow the mac and cheese to cool slightly, then serve it to your eager guests. Each spoonful is a delicious, homestyle hug in a bowl.

Read More: Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

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