Mac n Cheese, the ultimate comfort food, is a timeless classic loved by kids and adults alike. With its velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta, it’s no wonder this dish holds a special place in our hearts. While there are countless variations out there, we’re here to share a foolproof recipe for homemade Mac n Cheese that will leave you craving more. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of creating a creamy and flavorful Mac n Cheese, complete with a list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to help you achieve macaroni perfection. Get ready to take your taste buds on a comforting journey with this irresistible dish.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color.
- Add the milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Incorporate the cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese to the pot, a handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth. This will create a luscious cheese sauce.
- Season to perfection: Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
- Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until all the pasta is evenly coated.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer the Mac n Cheese to a serving dish. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips :
- Add a crispy topping: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter or grated Parmesan cheese over the Mac n Cheese before baking or broiling.
- Mix in additional ingredients: Elevate your Mac n Cheese by adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, diced tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different cheeses: Feel free to explore various cheese combinations to create your perfect Mac n Cheese blend. Gouda, gruyère, or fontina can add a unique twist to the classic cheddar base.