Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe You’ll Crave
Macaroni and cheese is a comforting dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. It’s a staple for many families, and with good reason – it’s simple to make, versatile, and above all, incredibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a dish that can be prepared in advance for a potluck, this creamy macaroni cheese recipe will satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 450 grams of elbow macaroni pasta
- 110 grams of unsalted butter
- 60 grams of all-purpose flour
- 950 ml of whole milk
- 480 ml of heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for a slight kick)
- 450 grams of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 225 grams of Gruyere or fontina cheese, shredded
- 50 grams of Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt, to taste
Steps to Make the Perfect Creamy Mac and Cheese
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook it until it is just shy of al dente, typically about 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside. This ensures the pasta will absorb some of the sauce without becoming too soft.
<li><h4>Make the Roux</h4>
<p>In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This forms the roux, which is the base for thickening your cheese sauce.</p>
<p class="pro-note">🧀 Note: A good roux is crucial for a creamy cheese sauce; make sure to cook it until it's bubbly but not browned.</p>
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<li><h4>Create the Sauce</h4>
<p>Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. Add mustard, black pepper, and cayenne (if using), and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Do not let it boil vigorously.</p>
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<li><h4>Add the Cheese</h4>
<p>Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and Gruyere, stirring until completely melted. Then, mix in the Parmesan. The key here is patience – adding the cheese slowly prevents it from becoming grainy. Once all the cheese is melted, taste and adjust with salt.</p>
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<li><h4>Combine Pasta and Sauce</h4>
<p>Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece of pasta is coated. If your sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash more milk or cream.</p>
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<li><h4>Bake (Optional)</h4>
<p>If you prefer a baked macaroni and cheese with a golden top:
<ul>
<li>Pour the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish.</li>
<li>Optionally, sprinkle with extra cheese or breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.</li>
<li>Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.</li>
</ul>
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Notes
If you’re opting for a stovetop version, keep the heat low and stir frequently to prevent sticking.
🌟 Note: This recipe can be easily adapted for a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients proportionally.
You can make this dish in advance by assembling it up to the baking step, then refrigerating. Just increase baking time by 5-10 minutes if the dish is cold from the fridge.
The comfort of creamy macaroni cheese lies not just in its flavor but in its versatility. You can add bacon, breadcrumbs, or even breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for an extra crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some vegetables like broccoli or peas for a more wholesome meal.
To sum up, this macaroni cheese recipe is the epitome of comfort food. Its rich, creamy sauce envelops each piece of pasta in a cocoon of cheesy goodness, providing warmth and satisfaction with every bite. The recipe is easy enough for beginners yet offers enough flexibility for those who wish to experiment with their flavors. Whether you choose to bake it for a cheesy crust or keep it on the stovetop for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a cherished part of your meal rotation.
Can I make this mac and cheese recipe gluten-free?
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Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour in the roux with a gluten-free flour blend that’s intended for baking or cooking.
How can I store leftovers?
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Store any leftover macaroni cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat on the stove with a bit of milk to restore creaminess.
What are good cheese combinations for this recipe?
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Experiment with different cheeses like gouda for a smoky flavor, or add some blue cheese for a bold taste. Remember, good melting cheeses like cheddar, Gruyere, and fontina are always a safe bet for creaminess.
