Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Macaroni and Cheese is a beloved classic comfort food, known for its creamy, cheesy goodness. Here’s a detailed recipe for a rich and flavorful baked macaroni and cheese:

Ingredients:

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 8 ounces (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional for extra flavor)
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% is best)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

• Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook Pasta: Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente (usually 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions). Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

• Heat Milk: In a saucepan, warm the milk over low heat. This helps to prevent lumps when adding it to the roux.
• Prepare Roux: In a separate large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. The mixture should be smooth and golden, but not browned.
• Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the warm milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble.
• Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère (if using) until melted and smooth. Add salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

• Mix Together: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.

4. Prepare for Baking:

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish.

5. Make the Topping:

• Combine Topping Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and Parmesan cheese (if using). Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.

6. Bake:

• Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.

7. Serve:

• Cool Slightly: Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly and makes it easier to serve.

Enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese! It’s perfect as a main dish or a hearty side. For variety, you can also mix in extras like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or steamed broccoli.