Mac and Cheese

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Indulge in creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with this easy stovetop recipe. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and cozy nights in.

Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with tender macaroni for a rich and satisfying dish. This recipe is an easy stovetop version that doesn’t require baking, so it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or as a delicious side for family gatherings, this mac and cheese is perfectly smooth, gooey, and full of flavor. Let’s make your new favorite mac and cheese!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta shape)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp mustard powder (optional, for flavor depth)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

  1. Cook the Pasta
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux
    In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble slightly. This roux will help thicken the cheese sauce.
  3. Add Milk and Cream
    Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add Cheese and Seasoning
    Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until they melt smoothly into the sauce. Add the mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
    Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
  6. Serve and Garnish
    Remove from heat, sprinkle with paprika for color if desired, and serve hot.

Indulge in creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with this easy stovetop recipe. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and cozy nights in.

Variations

  • Baked Mac and Cheese: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
  • Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a kick of heat.
  • Three-Cheese Mac: Substitute one of the cheeses with Gruyère or Gouda for a richer flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

  • Cheese Choices: Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyère.
  • Sauce Consistency: Adjust thickness by adding a splash more milk if the sauce becomes too thick.
  • Avoiding Graininess: For a smoother sauce, shred the cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve Mac and Cheese as a main dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.
  • Pair it with BBQ or fried chicken for a delicious Southern-inspired meal.

Tips

  • Reheating: For leftovers, add a splash of milk before reheating on the stovetop or microwave to keep the sauce creamy.
  • Adding Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, or even lobster for a more indulgent mac and cheese.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 520
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fat: 27g
  • Sodium: 470mg

FAQs

Q: Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk. Avoid baking it twice, as it may dry out.

Q: What is the best cheese for mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar provides great flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. Gruyère and Gouda are also delicious for a gourmet twist.

Q: How do I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming gritty?
Use freshly grated cheese and add it to the sauce gradually over low heat, stirring constantly to melt it smoothly.

Conclusion

This creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is sure to satisfy with its perfect blend of flavors and textures. A classic comfort food, it’s quick to make and easy to customize to your taste. Whether you serve it as a main or a side, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

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