Macaroni and cheese is a dish beloved by millions, known for its comforting, creamy texture and rich, cheesy flavor. While there are countless recipes out there, this Simple 5-Ingredient Baked Mac-n-Cheese stands out for its ease of preparation without sacrificing taste. Let's explore how you can whip up this crowd-pleaser with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1⁄2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
🍽 Note: Feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne or shells. Also, if you're out of cheddar, you can use other sharp cheeses like Gruyère or a blend.
Steps to Prepare
Preheat Your Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- While the oven is heating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
🌡 Note: Ensure the oven is properly preheated before baking to get that perfect golden crust on top.
Cook the Pasta
- Add the macaroni to the boiling water and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes.
- Drain the pasta, but do not rinse it, as this will wash away the starch needed to thicken the sauce.
Create the Cheese Sauce
- While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, gradually stir in the shredded cheese until it forms a smooth mixture.
- Add the milk to the cheese mixture, stirring constantly until the sauce is creamy. Make sure not to let it boil as it might cause the cheese to separate.
Mix Everything
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring that all the pasta is well coated.
- If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top for a crunchy texture. You can also mix in a bit of melted butter with the breadcrumbs for extra richness.
🧀 Note: For a deeper flavor, consider adding a touch of mustard or paprika to your cheese sauce before mixing with the pasta.
Bake to Perfection
- Pour the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish. Use a 9x13 inch dish for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes after baking to prevent burning yourself. Serve while still warm for the best experience, perhaps with a side salad or garlic bread.
To round up, this Simple 5-Ingredient Baked Mac-n-Cheese recipe provides an easy yet delicious way to enjoy this classic dish. It's straightforward to make, requiring only a few common ingredients and basic cooking skills, yet it delivers that comforting, cheesy goodness that's universally loved. The key lies in not overcomplicating the sauce, allowing the flavors of the cheese and pasta to shine through.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
+
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it. Bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s straight from the fridge.
How can I make this dish healthier?
+
Consider using whole grain or lentil pasta for extra fiber and nutrients. Swap half of the cheddar for a lighter cheese like mozzarella, and use skim milk instead of whole milk for a lower fat content.
What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
+
If your sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk to thin it out. If it’s too runny, keep cooking it over low heat until it reduces or sprinkle in a little flour for thickening.
Can I add more ingredients to this recipe?
+
Absolutely, this recipe is versatile. You can add cooked bacon, chopped vegetables like broccoli, or even diced tomatoes to give it a personal touch.
How should I store leftovers?
+Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 15 minutes or in the microwave, covered to retain moisture.
