Mac and cheese

Classic Mac and Cheese

A comfort food classic, Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy meal at home, this recipe will deliver that perfect gooey goodness!

Ingredients:

• For the Pasta:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)

  • Salt (for boiling pasta)

• For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 3 cups whole milk (you can use 2% or skim if you prefer)

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• For the Topping (Optional):

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

   • In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This will create a roux, which is the base of your sauce.

   • Slowly add the milk to the roux while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. You want the sauce to coat the back of a spoon.

   • Once thickened, lower the heat to low and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

   • Gradually add the shredded cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan) to the sauce, stirring until completely melted and smooth.

3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

   • Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly with the cheesy goodness.

4. Optional Topping (For Baked Mac and Cheese):

   • If you want to make baked mac and cheese, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.

   • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

   • Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the mac and cheese hot and enjoy!

Tips:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors. Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack are great options.

• Creamier Mac and Cheese: For an even creamier texture, add a little cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.

• Make It Spicy: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce.

This Classic Mac and Cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—creamy, cheesy, and comforting every time!