Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food made with tender macaroni pasta and a
creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s rich, comforting, and easy to make. You can bake it for a
crispy top, or serve it stovetop for a creamy, indulgent dish. Here’s a simple recipe
for both!
Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe (Stovetop Version):
Ingredients:
8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer sauce)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella
for extra creaminess)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1/4 tsp mustard powder (optional, for a subtle tang)
Pinch of paprika (optional, for a little smokiness)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
o Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook
according to package directions until al dente (usually around 7-8
minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
o In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
o Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk to combine.
Cook the flour-butter mixture for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a
smooth paste (this helps thicken the sauce).
3. Add the Milk:
o Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5
minutes.
4. Add the Cheese:
o Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the cheddar cheese,
Parmesan cheese (if using), and any seasonings (salt, pepper,
garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika). Stir until the cheese is
completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
o Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated
through.
6. Serve:
o Once combined, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed (you may
want more salt or pepper). Serve immediately while hot and creamy!
Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe:
For a crispy, golden top, you can bake your mac and cheese.
Ingredients:
All the ingredients for the stovetop version above
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
2 tbsp melted butter (for the breadcrumb topping)
Extra shredded cheese (optional for extra cheesiness on top)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta and Sauce:
o Follow the stovetop recipe for cooking the pasta and making the
cheese sauce.
2. Assemble for Baking:
o Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
o Once the pasta and cheese sauce are ready, transfer the mixture into
a greased baking dish (a 9x9-inch dish works well).
o If you want extra cheesiness, sprinkle an additional layer of shredded
cheese on top of the pasta.
3. Add the Topping:
o In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter.
Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and
cheese for a crispy finish.
4. Bake:
o Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is
golden and the cheese is bubbly.
5. Serve:
o Let it cool slightly before serving so the cheese can set a bit. Then,
enjoy the crispy, gooey goodness!
Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese:
Use a mix of cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère,
Monterey Jack, or Fontina to give your mac and cheese more depth and
flavor.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta to al dente so it doesn't become
mushy when combined with the sauce.
For extra creaminess: You can add a little cream cheese, cream, or sour
cream to the sauce for even more creaminess.
Season well: Mac and cheese needs the right balance of salt, pepper, and a
little kick of seasoning (mustard powder or hot sauce) to bring out its flavor.
Fun Fact:
Mac and cheese has been around for centuries. It dates back to the 1700s when
Thomas Jefferson brought a recipe for macaroni and cheese back from Italy. He
served it at a state dinner in 1802, and it became a popular dish in America after
that!
Mac and cheese is endlessly customizable and the perfect comfort food. Whether
baked with a crispy topping or creamy on the stovetop, it’s sure to be a crowd-
pleaser! Enjoy!
