Are you craving a comforting and indulgent dish that brings joy to every bite? Look no further than baked macaroni and cheese. This delightful dish, often associated with home-cooked comfort, can be made with just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment. Here's how you can transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary mac & cheese experience in 7 easy steps.
Step 1: Ingredients Gathering
Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients ready:
- Macaroni: 16 oz. box, elbow or any small pasta shape.
- Cheese: You'll need at least three types: cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. Use 8 oz. each of shredded cheddar and mozzarella, and 4 oz. of freshly grated parmesan.
- Milk: 2 cups of whole milk for a creamy sauce.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted.
- Flour: 4 tablespoons for the roux.
- Spices: Salt, black pepper, mustard powder (1/2 tsp), and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Breadcrumbs: Optional, for topping.
Step 2: Preheat and Boil
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill a large pot with water, add salt generously, and bring it to a boil. This step ensures your macaroni will cook evenly and absorb flavor.
Step 3: Make the Roux
While your pasta cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously until the roux is a light golden color. This forms the base for your cheese sauce, providing thickness and body.
Tip: Don’t let the roux darken too much as it will affect the color and flavor of your cheese sauce.
Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce
Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Once combined, cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Then, turn down the heat and start adding your shredded cheeses, stirring until melted. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, mustard powder, and a pinch of nutmeg for that extra flair.
🔍 Note: If you want a smoother sauce, use a blender to blitz the cheese sauce after adding the cheese.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Drain your cooked pasta and place it in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta, mixing well to ensure every noodle is coated. Here's where you can get creative:
- Add additional cheese on top for a gooey top layer.
- Or mix in breadcrumbs with melted butter for a crunchy topping.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Include an image of the dish baking in the oven here.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
After baking, allow the mac & cheese to rest for at least 10 minutes. This step helps the dish set, making it easier to serve. Scoop out generous portions, perhaps with a salad on the side, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
By following these 7 steps, you've created a homemade baked mac & cheese that's both comforting and delicious. It's the perfect meal for family gatherings, potlucks, or just when you need a little comfort food in your life.
Remember, the keys to perfect mac & cheese are:
- Choosing the right cheese blend for flavor and meltability.
- Getting the roux just right for a thick, creamy sauce.
- Baking at the correct temperature to ensure the dish is cooked through but not overdone.
Can I make mac & cheese ahead of time?
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Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate it up to a day in advance. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What if I don’t have all those cheese varieties?
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Using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and a bit of Gruyère or even cream cheese will yield excellent results. You can adjust the types and ratios based on what you have available.
How do I keep my mac & cheese creamy?
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Make sure to use enough sauce, cover the dish while baking to retain moisture, and let it rest after baking to allow the sauce to set.
