Mac ‘n Cheese, the ultimate comfort food that transcends generations and brings a smile to everyone’s face. This classic recipe promises a symphony of flavors and textures, with creamy cheese sauce embracing perfectly cooked macaroni, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re seeking a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for a gathering, this Mac ‘n Cheese recipe is your go-to solution. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to create this cheesy delight that will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz dry macaroni
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup light cream (about 10-12% MF)
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 can condensed cream of cheddar soup (optional, 10.75 oz)
- 4 cups sharp cheddar, divided
- 1/2 cup fresh parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees, setting the stage for the cheesy goodness to come. Meanwhile, cook the macaroni according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and run under cold water to halt the cooking process.
- Create the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour and let it cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously. This forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- Whisk in the Goodness: Slowly whisk in 1 1/2 cups of milk, 1 cup of light cream, dry mustard powder, onion powder, and salt & pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens.
- Cheese Melting Magic: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of fresh parmesan cheese and 3 cups of sharp cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and velvety. The aroma of melted cheese will fill your kitchen, signaling the cheesy delight that’s in the making.
- Optional Cream of Cheddar Soup: For an extra layer of creaminess, add the optional condensed cream of cheddar soup to the mixture. Stir it in thoroughly, enhancing the richness of your Mac ‘n Cheese.
- Combine Sauce and Macaroni: Toss the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni noodles until they are thoroughly coated. This step ensures that every bite is infused with the luscious cheese flavor.
- Baking Brilliance: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 pan, spreading it evenly. Top the dish with the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, creating a golden and gooey crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the Mac ‘n Cheese in the preheated oven for 18-24 minutes or until it becomes bubbly and the cheese on top reaches a tantalizing golden hue. Be cautious not to overcook; we’re aiming for a perfect blend of creamy and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked Mac ‘n Cheese to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This ensures that the flavors settle, and each bite is as delightful as the last.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the timeless goodness of Mac ‘n Cheese, where every forkful is a journey into the world of creamy comfort. This recipe, with its meticulous balance of flavors and textures, guarantees satisfaction with every bite. Whether enjoyed on its own or served as a side dish, this Mac ‘n Cheese creation is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic comfort food. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the cheesy delight, and savor the culinary masterpiece that is homemade Mac ‘n Cheese.
