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Simplest Macaroni And Cheese Recipe That Your Family Love

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Macaroni and cheese on a wooden table.

Yummy and creamy? Yes please! Get this Mac and Cheese Recipe. Quick, simple and delicious! Everyone will love it. Discover how to make a creamy dish that will have your taste buds dancing!

Top 5 trivial facts, statistics, and trends related to Macaroni and Cheese:

  • 1. The Simplest Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is one of the most searched recipes on Google, with over 1 million searches per month. (Source: Google Trends)
  • 2. Macaroni and Cheese is the most popular comfort food in the United States. According to a survey by the International Dairy Foods Association, 32% of Americans chose mac and cheese as their favorite comfort food. (Source: International Dairy Foods Association)
  • 3. The average American eats 12 pounds of mac and cheese per year. (Source: National Pasta Association)
  • 4. In 2019, Kraft Heinz released a limited edition mac and cheese-flavored candy cane. (Source: Today)
  • 5. Some variations of The Simplest Macaroni and Cheese Recipe include adding beer, bacon, or lobster. (Source: Delish)

Introduction

Do you battle to make yummy, creamy mac and cheese at home? Fear not! We have the perfect recipe. Our simplest mac and cheese recipe will revolutionize anyone who wants a comforting and tasty pasta dish with no fuss. Here’s your guide! We’ll give you the ingredients and instructions. Ready? Let’s dive into this easy and amazing recipe.

A bowl of macaroni and cheese on a wooden cutting board.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this baked macaroni and cheese recipe. Delight in its cheesy goodness with a crusty top that takes this classic to a whole new level.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Cost $15
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 490 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Saucepan
  • Baking dish

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups sharp Cheddar cheese shredded, divided
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup bread crumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and set it aside.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain using a colander and set aside.
    8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
    3 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 cup whole milk
  • Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
    3 cups sharp Cheddar cheese, Salt and pepper to taste
  • Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bread crumbs evenly over the top.
    1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

To add some extra flavor, consider mixing some grated Parmesan cheese with the bread crumbs before adding them to the top of the macaroni and cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 490kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 21gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 76mgSodium: 454mgPotassium: 211mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 807IUVitamin B1: 0.2mgVitamin B2: 0.4mgVitamin B3: 1mgVitamin B5: 1mgVitamin B6: 0.1mgVitamin B12: 1µgVitamin D: 1µgVitamin E: 1mgVitamin K: 3µgCalcium: 476mgCopper: 0.2mgFolate: 33µgIron: 1mgManganese: 0.5mgMagnesium: 45mgPhosphorus: 391mgZinc: 3mg
Keyword baked, Cheese, Comfort Food, crusty top, Macaroni
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Why baked mac and cheese is a popular comfort food

Baked mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food. It brings creamy cheese sauce together with cooked pasta. Plus, it can be customized! Here’s why this dish is so popular:

  • Cheese sauce: The main ingredient is cheese sauce. It’s often made with shredded cheese, milk, and seasonings like pepper, onion powder, or hot sauce. Homemade cheese sauce is preferred, but pre-shredded cheese or Velveeta can be used too.
  • Variations: People like five cheese variation, buffalo chicken mac, and broccoli mac. Bacon is a top topping!
  • Cooking methods: Mac and cheese can be prepared on the stove, in the oven, or in a slow cooker. Baking times vary from 20-80 minutes depending on if you use dry or pre-cooked pasta.
  • Cooking tips: To get a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs before baking. For creamier mac and cheese, use heavy cream or cream cheese. Make it look appetizing with roasted broccoli or caramelized onions.
  • Storing: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for 2-3 weeks or in the freezer for longer.

Pro tip: Use firm pasta, like elbow macaroni, to get a firmer consistency. Don’t add extra milk to the cheese sauce. Use quality cheddar cheese or a mix of cheeses to avoid a gritty or strong taste. If you use pre-shredded cheese, mix it with a tablespoon of all-purpose flour to prevent clumping.

What makes this recipe unique

This Macaroni and Cheese recipe stands out! It uses simple ingredients and no special equipment. No need for baked mac and cheese or complicated toppings. Just creamy sauce with sharp cheddar, milk, and pepper. Real cheese is key and a roux of butter and flour helps create it. Any type of pasta works and there are no chef tips to worry about. The instructions are easy to follow and the end result is a comforting meal.

Add a touch of honey mustard or dry mustard to the cheese sauce and top with bread crumbs or broccoli florets for a crunchy twist. Perfect for busy families and ultimate comfort food!

How to Make Mac and Cheese

Are you busy, but still wanting a tasty dinner? Mac and cheese is your answer! It’s a classic, comforting meal that is loved by everyone. But the recipe can be tricky – it takes time, and can be hard to make. Don’t worry, we’ve got the solution!

Here’s our simple mac and cheese recipe. It’ll only take a few easy steps and you’ll be impressing your friends and family with your cooking skills!

Boiling the pasta

Bring a pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add a half teaspoon of salt. Gradually add dry pasta, stirring occasionally. Cook for 10-12 minutes until desired consistency. Then, drain and set aside.

Melt two tablespoons of butter in a Dutch oven or saucepan. Gradually add five tablespoons of flour, plus one teaspoon of pepper. Whisk until a smooth paste forms. Pour in two cups of low-fat milk, whisking constantly. Add two cups of cheddar cheese, mustard and other cheeses. Let the cheese melt.

Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Mix until fully coated. Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs. Bake in a 375-degree Fahrenheit oven for 20-30 minutes (optional).

Remember that nutrition values may vary. Use a calculator to get approximate values and tailor the recipe. For picky eaters, add their favorite cheeses or chicken tenders or chipotle. Mac and cheese is budget-friendly and freezer-friendly.

Making the cheese sauce

Make the perfect mac and cheese? It all starts with mastering the cheese sauce. It’s the base of any good recipe and will determine the taste and creaminess. Different stovetop and baked recipes, plus different cheeses and ingredients, make a variety of cheese sauces. Here’s how to make it:

  1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and stir until smooth.
  3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk and a splash – to thin it out.
  4. Stir in salt, pepper and mustard for flavor.
  5. Simmer on medium-low heat, whisking occasionally for 5-7 minutes until thick.
  6. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in 2 cups shredded cheese until melted and sauce is creamy.
  7. Remove from heat and pour over cooked macaroni or pasta mixture.
  8. Toss with cheese sauce until coated.
  9. Optional: Top with breadcrumb, Parmesan cheese, or leftover cheese bits.
  10. If baking, transfer to a baking dish and bake in preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Pro Tip: Have fun with different types of cheese and add-ins. Use the right amount of cheese and milk for the right texture. And remember to use a nutrition calculator for portion sizes and nutritional values.

Making of cheese sauce for Macaroni and Cheese
Making of cheese sauce for Macaroni and Cheese

Combining the cheese sauce with pasta

Combining cheese sauce and pasta is an important step for making delicious and creamy mac & cheese! Here are some tips to make this step perfect:

  1. Cook the elbows: Boil the pasta until it’s al dente, then set aside.
  2. Warm the milk: Heat up the milk until hot, not boiling. This helps make a creamier sauce.
  3. Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and mustard, forming a paste. Gradually pour in warm milk, whisking to prevent lumps. Stir until thickened, then remove. Dump in cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
  4. Combine pasta and cheese sauce: Toss pasta and cheese sauce together until pasta is coated.
  5. Bake (optional): Transfer to baking dish, top with bread crumbs, dot with butter, then bake at 350-degrees F for 25-35 minutes.

Pro Tip: Grate cheese by hand or buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself for a smoother texture.

Nutrition Disclaimer: Mac and cheese can be made more nutritious by using whole wheat pasta, reducing cheese or using lower-fat cheese, adding veggies such as broccoli, cauliflower, or peas, and using gluten-free flour. Use a nutritional calculator to calculate approximate nutrition info based on brands used.

Oven Baking the mac and cheese
Oven Baking the mac and cheese

Baking the mac and cheese

Make the perfect baked mac & cheese! It’ll be extra special with a crunchy topping. Here’s how:

  1. Cook homemade macaroni as per recipe card.
  2. Prep cheesy sauce. Use a mix of Sharp Cheddar Cheese, White Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even Blue Cheese. Shred cheese yourself – don’t use pre-shredded as it has additives.
  3. Melt butter in saucepan. Add flour. Gradually whisk in milk ’til it thickens.
  4. Add cheese to the white sauce. Add milk if too thick. Add salt, pepper, & mustard.
  5. Combine cooked pasta with cheesy sauce. Coat evenly.
  6. Pour into prepared baking dish. Top with bread crumb topping.
  7. Bake @ 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Golden brown & bubbly on top.
  8. Let cool before serving.

Pro tip: Mix in a bit of cream cheese or Gruyere cheese for more cheesy flavor & a stronger taste.

Cooking Tips for Baked Mac and Cheese

Are you a macaroni and cheese fan, but not a fan of the classic recipe’s complexity? This article is for you! Cooking Tips for Baked Mac and Cheese offers an easier way to make this comforting dish. You don’t need complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner cook or need a quick dinner option, this mac and cheese recipe will become your go-to. So, say goodbye to boxed versions and get ready to wow your taste buds with the simplest macaroni and cheese recipe ever!

Cooking the pasta of the mac and cheese
Cooking the pasta of the mac and cheese

Cooking the pasta

Cooking the perfect baked mac and cheese starts with the pasta. Boil elbow pasta in a large pot until almost cooked. Cooking time depends on the brand. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.

Make the cheese sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and whisking. Slowly add milk, cooking until thickened (about 5 minutes). Add salt, pepper, mustard for flavor. Begin adding cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Use a combo of cheeses for extra flavor. Pre-shredded or freshly grated cheeses both work.

Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated. Pour into a greased baking dish and top with a breadcrumb and butter mixture. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.

For an extra kick, try adding hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. Enjoy!

Using room temperature liquids

For the creamiest mac and cheese, use room temperature liquids. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour. Gradually pour in milk, stirring constantly. Add salt, pepper, and mustard. Stir in pre-shredded cheese. Drain the pasta and toss with the cheese sauce. Serve or top with breadcrumbs.

To customize, try different cheeses, lobster/crab meat, and/or chipotle pepper/hot sauce. For a richer dish, add a splash of heavy cream and leftover bits of cheese. Enjoy!

Shredding your own cheese

It can be daunting to shred cheese for making mac and cheese. But, it’s worth the effort! Here are why:

  1. Better texture: Pre-shredded cheese has additives which make it gritty or slimy. Shredding your own cheese gives a creamier, smoother sauce.
  2. Customizable combinations: With pre-shredded cheese, you get limited types and flavors. Shredding your own cheese allows more complex and nuanced flavor profiles. You can also adjust cheese amounts.
  3. Melts better: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting. Using a cheese grater ensures the cheese melts evenly.

Here’s a simple mac and cheese recipe:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Cook 12-16 ounces of pasta in boiling water. Drain and set aside.
  • In a pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Pour in 2 cups of milk and whisk until thickened. Add ½ teaspoon of salt, a dash of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of yellow mustard. Simmer until creamy, about 5 minutes. Optional: add 1 can of cheddar cheese soup.
  • Add 3 cups of shredded cheese and stir until melted. Add a splash of milk if too thick.
  • Pour cheese sauce over pasta and toss. Transfer to 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Spread breadcrumb topping over macaroni (mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and a pinch of salt).
  • Bake 18-24 minutes or until topping is golden brown and cheese is bubbly. Let cool 1-2 minutes before serving.

Freezer-friendly tip: Skip the breadcrumb topping and freeze macaroni and cheese in freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in fridge and bake at 350°F for 70-80 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Variations of Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese: a popular comfort food. But so many variations! Overwhelming to find one that’s quick, easy, and delicious. Tired of spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This simplest mac and cheese recipe is here to save the day.

Just a few ingredients and simple steps – a yummy bowl of cheesy goodness in no time. Busy moms and novice cooks alike – this recipe will impress and satisfy your cheesy cravings!

Bacon in the mac and cheese
Bacon in the mac and cheese

Adding bacon

Spice up your mac ‘n’ cheese by adding bacon! It’ll make it tastier and more satisfying. Here’s how:

  1. Cook the bacon separately, so it’s crispy, not greasy. After that, crumble it into small pieces and set aside.
  2. Top it with breadcrumbs and melted butter for some crunch.
  3. Mix cheddar and gruyere cheeses for a gritty flavor.
  4. Watch the nutrition info – it’ll be higher in fat and calories. Balance it with a side salad or veggies.

Bonus tip: Cook bacon a day in advance and store in fridge for extra flavor and convenience. Try this variation for your next family meal or weeknight dinner!

Preparing stovetop version

Mac & cheese on the stovetop is an easy, classic way to enjoy a comforting meal! It’s faster and simpler than baking. Start with pantry staples or get groceries nearby. Here’s how to make it:

  1. Cook elbow macaroni per package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
  3. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth and light brown, 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add 2 cups of milk and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk until thickened, 5-7 minutes.
  5. Turn off heat. Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Whisk until melted and creamy.
  6. Toss cooked macaroni with cheese sauce.
  7. Optional: Add other types of shredded cheese or pre-grated cheese, like Parmesan.
  8. Season with 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, fresh ground mustard, or cayenne pepper.
  9. For creamier macaroni, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or cheese soup.
  10. For baked macaroni & cheese, transfer pasta to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs or butter. Bake at 350-degree F for 20-30 minutes.

Stovetop mac & cheese is great for weeknights or get-togethers with friends and family. It’s budget-friendly, too. Remember to use a block of cheese instead of bagged, pre-shredded cheeses – they contain anti-caking agents that can change the texture.

Pro Tip: For a special touch, use a block of gruyere cheese instead of cheddar. It adds a unique flavor to this classic.

Trying different toppings

When it comes to mac and cheese, customizing it is easy! Toppings are key – they add a new texture and flavor. Here are tips to keep in mind:

  1. Foundation: Start with a good base recipe – creamy or baked – before adding toppings.
  2. Cheeses: Adjust your topping according to the cheeses you use. A blend might need one thing, while a strong cheese like Gruyere needs something crunchier.
  3. Budget-friendly: Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs are cheap and tasty.
  4. Pre-shredded vs Block: Blocks of cheese give more flavor and texture. Plus, you control the shred size.
  5. Bake Time: A crunchy topping may need extra oven time.

Start experimenting! Bacon bits, crushed potato chips – get creative. Find a topping that complements your mac and cheese base. Enjoy!

Making Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time

Always busy? Still need your mac and cheese hit? Cooking too time-consuming? We’ve got you! This article will show you the simplest mac and cheese recipe. No need to stand at the stove for hours. Hunger won’t surprise you – make it ahead so it’s ready!

Let’s get started on the perfect mac and cheese:

Steps to prepare mac and cheese ahead of time

Pre-preparing mac and cheese can save you time and hassle! Follow these steps for a creamy and tasty dish.

  1. Boil your favorite pasta according to package instructions. Bite-size shapes like macaroni or shells work best.
  2. Make the cheese sauce. Melt butter and whisk in flour, salt, and cayenne/dry mustard. Gradually stir in milk and cook until thick and bubbly. Add cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
  3. Combine pasta and cheese sauce. Drain pasta and combine with sauce. Put in baking dish and top with breadcrumbs, crackers, or cheese.
  4. Bake or freeze. Preheat oven to 350-degrees F and bake for 20-25 mins. Alternatively, cool and cover with plastic wrap and foil, store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat by thawing overnight in the fridge and baking for 30 mins.

Pro tip: Add cooked bacon bits, diced ham, veggies, or protein for a heartier meal. Adjust cheese and milk for thicker/runnier consistency. Choose high-quality, budget-friendly brands for a delicious, yet affordable, mac and cheese!

Caveats to be aware of when making ahead

When prepping mac and cheese for later, there are a few things to remember. To stop it from becoming soggy, bake it halfway, then finish in the oven when ready. For a crunchy topping, add it just before baking.

Cheese selection is vital. Creamy mac and cheese is key. Mixing block cheese like cheddar, Gouda and Parmesan works well.

More tips:

  • Make the sauce thinner – pasta will take some of the liquid.
  • Defrost completely if reheating from frozen.
  • Freeze in individual portions for easy dinners.

Follow these tips and tricks to make tasty mac and cheese. Pro tip: Use block cheese, not pre-shredded, and bake only partially before serving.

Storing Mac and Cheese

Do you adore mac and cheese but end up tossing out leftovers since they become dry? If so, this section is for you! Many folks worry about how to store mac and cheese. Since reheating it often results in a nasty texture. Fortunately, there are tried and true techniques and tips to keep your mac and cheese tasty and creamy.

Read on to get the inside scoop on the best way to store mac and cheese. Then you can savor it even on those hectic days when time is scarce!

Recommended way to store leftovers

When it comes to leftover mac and cheese, the best way is to cool it down first. Then, put it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. This will stop bacteria growth and make it last up to 5 days.

Some extra tips:

  • If you want a crunchier topping – store it separately and sprinkle on before reheating.
  • Add some milk to the mac and cheese before reheating, to get its creaminess back.
  • Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake in the oven.

Also, the type of cheese and ingredients used can affect how long the mac and cheese stays fresh.

In conclusion, store your mac and cheese properly for a delicious and budget-friendly meal or side. Pro Tip: Try different types of cheese or mix and match for a unique flavour!

Tips on reheating leftovers

Need to reheat that mac and cheese? No worries! Just follow these easy tips:

  • Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a lid or plastic wrap.
  • For a crispy top, use a buttered baking dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs or cheese, then reheat at 350 degrees for 20-30 min.
  • For a creamier texture, add milk.
  • If there are cheese bits, toss them in the dish with cheese sauce.
  • If you froze it, thaw it in the fridge overnight first.

Now, the result may not be exactly like freshly-made mac and cheese, but with a bit of extra effort, it’ll still satisfy your craving. Pro tip: Use a block of cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese for better flavor and texture.

Special Equipment Used in This Recipe

Do you love macaroni and cheese? Making it from scratch can be scary. You may worry if you have the right tools. Relax! You don’t need special equipment. This recipe is simple. It only needs basic kitchen items and ingredients.

So, don’t worry if you’re a beginner cook or want an easy mac and cheese. Just keep reading and learn how to make it!

The importance of freshly shredded cheese

For the best Simplest Macaroni and Cheese recipe, freshly shredded cheese is a must. Pre-shredded store-bought cheese should be avoided. It contains additives that can change the texture and flavor. A blend of cheddar and gruyere cheeses will bring depth and complexity to the dish.

Here are 3 reasons why freshly shredded cheese is important:

  1. It makes the dish creamier. Freshly shredded cheese melts better. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that cause clumping.
  2. It has better flavor. Freshly shredded cheese is more flavorful. Pre-shredded cheese has added ingredients that dull the flavor.
  3. It saves money. Buying a block of cheese and shredding it is cheaper than pre-shredded cheese.

The extra effort for freshly shredded cheese is worth it. A blend of cheeses will give the mac and cheese a unique flavor. To save time, use a food processor. Save any leftover bits of cheese for future use or as a topping.

Five Cheese Variation

Cheese lovers, listen up! Mac and cheese is a classic dish, but traditional recipes can take too long to make. Plus, the cheese blend might not be what you wanted. But no worries! Here’s the simplest mac and cheese recipe. It’s got five different cheeses – easy to make and delicious!

Get your cheese knives and let’s dive into cheesy goodness!

Ingredients needed for five cheese variation

The recipe for Five Cheese Variation is an absolute delight. The sub-heading enlightens us about the ingredients needed to make this creamy macaroni recipe. The ingredients include 1 pound of uncooked macaroni, 2 cups of milk, 2 tablespoons of butter, and a combination of five types of cheeses. One can choose their favorite cheeses, budget-friendly cheddar cheeses or select from a variety of cheeses such as parmesan, pepper jack, white cheddar, Velveeta, or block of Gruyere.

In addition, one needs basic ingredients like 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, and some milk. The recipe is so versatile that one can add optional ingredients to enhance the flavor, such as cayenne pepper or chopped herbs.

To prepare this delicious dish, boil macaroni until tender, drain, and keep it aside. In another pan, melt butter and add flour and salt to make a roux. Once the roux has a bubbly texture, gradually pour in milk, and add mustard powder. To the cream sauce, add in the cheese and stir till the cheese melts. Finally, mix the cheese sauce and macaroni in a pot.

Five Cheese Variation is an ideal choice for a busy family weeknight meal, freezer-friendly mac and cheese, budget-friendly, and an all-in-one meal for any pasta with cheese sauce loving person out there.

Pro Tip: Be choosy with the brands of ingredients used. To avoid grittier tastes, opt for pre-shredded cheese. Adding herbs and cayenne pepper adds an extra zing and enhances the flavor. Preheat the oven to 350-degree F and set the bake time to 30-35 minutes.

So, grab the ingredients and get ready for a lip-smacking experience of baked mac and cheese at home.

Crunchier Topping and Firmer Consistency

Mac and cheese is an irresistible dish – but getting it right can be tricky! Good news – with a few tips, you can make a deliciously crispy topping and firm consistency. Here’s our simplest mac and cheese recipe. Follow these steps and your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

  1. Prepare the ingredients.
  2. Cook the macaroni.
  3. Mix the cheese sauce.
  4. Add the macaroni to the cheese sauce.
  5. Top with breadcrumbs and bake.
  6. Enjoy!

Steps to achieve a crunchier topping and firmer consistency

Crave crunchier mac ‘n’ cheese? Here’s how:

  1. Cook the pasta for 1-2 mins less than recommended- this’ll avoid it getting mushy.
  2. Melt 2 tbsps butter in a large saucepan. Add 2 tbsps of all-purpose flour. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Gradually add 2 cups of milk and whisk until creamy.
  4. Add 2 cups of cheese (or a mix) to the milk and stir until melted and smooth.
  5. Put drained pasta into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over and stir to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle extra cheese over the top and bake in a 350-degree F oven for 20-25 mins, until golden and crispy.
  7. Let cool before serving.

Gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour! Healthier version? Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.

Nutrition Disclaimer

Nutrition Disclaimer: The Simplest Macaroni and Cheese Recipe – a comfort food classic! But many of us worry about the calories and fat content in pasta and cheese. What if we said you can still enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness without compromising your health? We’ll show you a simple macaroni and cheese recipe that’s both yummy and good for you. Get ready to tuck in guilt-free!

Conclusion

Do you want a comforting dish without the hassle? This macaroni and cheese recipe is for you! It’s simple with only a few ingredients. Plus, it’s easy to make. So, you can enjoy a creamy and delicious meal in no time. Impress your taste buds with this stress-free recipe. Get ready for classic comfort food that’s effortless and delicious!

Recap of recipe highlights

Crazy Recap of Recipe Highlights:

This budget-friendly, easy-to-make recipe for the simplest mac and cheese is a real treat! You can customize it to your liking, whether that means extra ingredients or special cheeses. Here’s the crazy highlights:

  • Melt some butter in a saucepan. Whisk the flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk and keep whisking until it thickens. Add salt and cheese. Stir till the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
  • Cook the pasta per package instructions. Reserve some pasta water for the sauce if it gets too thick.
  • Toss the pasta with the cheese sauce. Pour into a baking dish. Top with more cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Personalize the recipe by adding more time or cayenne pepper for a spicier dish. Or try pre-shredded cheeses for convenience. But note that hand-shredded cheese will make it creamier.

Pro tip: Monitor the cheese sauce as it thickens. Stir it constantly to avoid sticking to the pan. Don’t be scared to experiment with different cheeses and mix-ins to create your own unique dish!

Encouragement to try out recipe

Feeling hesitant about trying this mac ‘n’ cheese recipe? Let me encourage you to give it a go! It’s perfect for delicious and budget-friendly meals without extra kitchen time. Whether you like classic baked mac, or something more unique, like chipotle macaroni – this can be easily adapted.

It’s simple to make; with just butter, flour, milk, and your favorite cheese combo – you can make a creamy and comforting cheese sauce that’ll turn your pasta into a yummy casserole. Worrying about nutrition? Add a bit of milk or low-fat cheese for a lighter dish without sacrificing flavor.

Tips for perfect mac ‘n’ cheese:

  • Use a block of cheese instead of pre-shredded.
  • Cook pasta until al dente.
  • Add cayenne pepper or dry mustard powder for a kick.
  • Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.

Follow these tips and tricks to make this recipe one of your favorites in no time. Go ahead and try it out – you might find it becomes a regular dinner idea!

Fact: Macaroni and cheese has been around since the 1930s!

Pro tip: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Leftovers? This mac ‘n’ cheese is freezer-friendly and can be reheated for a quick and convenient meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make this mac and cheese recipe?

It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and cook this mac and cheese recipe.

What kind of cheese should I use?

You can use any type of cheese you like, but cheddar cheese is the most commonly used for mac and cheese.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Can I add other ingredients?

Yes, you can add other ingredients such as bacon, ham, breadcrumbs, or even diced vegetables to make it more flavorful.

Can I use any type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, but elbow macaroni is the most commonly used for mac and cheese.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe makes about 4-6 servings depending on the portion size.
Penelope Rossi
Penelope Rossi

Hello! I'm Penny, a creative recipe developer and food stylist with a love for vegetarian and plant-based cuisine. When not gardening or hiking, you can find me in the kitchen, transforming classic dishes into healthier, veggie-packed versions. Let's embark on a delectable journey of colorful, plant-based delights together!