Classic Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this classic Macaroni and Cheese recipe that is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth.
- Gradually pour in the milk while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add in 1 3/4 cups of the cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Popular questions:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Can I use gluten-free pasta?
- How can I make this recipe creamy?
- Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a twist on the classic recipe.
Absolutely, substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
Add a splash of heavy cream or whole milk to the cheese sauce for a creamier texture.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking for a crispy topping.
Helpful tips:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
- Top with crispy bacon or caramelized onions for a delicious twist.
- Use a blend of cheeses like Gruyere and Parmesan for a more complex flavor profile.
Expert Secrets:
- To prevent the sauce from curdling, make sure to stir constantly while adding in the milk.
- For a gooey and stretchy texture, use a combination of cheddar and American cheese.
- For a golden brown crust, broil the mac and cheese for the last few minutes of baking.