Are you an avid foodie? Are you the one who likes to try different kinds of food, but don’t like to cook?
Most of us are like this only, but at times we are alone at home and there is no one to cook for us. It may happen that your car is not working or it’s too cool or hot outside that you don’t feel like going to a restaurant.
Mac and Cheese recipe, a timeless classic, has earned its place as a beloved comfort food around the world. The combination of tender macaroni enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce is a culinary delight that appeals to all ages.
Making homemade mac and cheese is not only a rewarding experience but also allows you to customize the dish to suit your taste preferences.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of crafting a mouthwatering mac and cheese that will leave everyone at the table craving more.
Let’s begin with the ingredients first..
Easy Homemade Mac And Cheese Recipe
Ingredients for Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe (2 Serving)
- 2 cups of Macaroni
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
If you want, you can add extra ingredients like bacon, Ham, peas, onions, mushrooms and broccoli, but you need to cook them before adding them.
Instructions for Making the Yummy Mac and Cheese Recipe
1. Boil the Macaroni
Firstly, you need to add nearly 4 quarts of water in the Pasta pot and add Macaroni to it. Also add a tablespoon of salt to it and start cooking it for about 8 minutes until the Macaroni is all dente. After the Macaroni is cooked, keep it aside.
2. Warm the Milk
After the Macaroni is cooked, start heating a cup of milk in the saucepan over medium heat. Now, stir the remaining half cup of milk and the all-purpose flour together until there are no lumps.
Whisk the milk-and-flour mixture into the warming milk when you just start to see steam rising in it. You should continue stirring the mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes until the milk thickens to the consistency of heavy cream.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Next, you need to turn the heat to low and start whisking cheese into the milk- and-flour mixture. Continue stirring the mixture until all the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Follow the instruction below:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and garlic powder (if using) to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, usually 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheese, stirring until smooth and fully melted.
4. Combine the Mac and Cheese Together
After cooking the Macaroni and making cheese sauce, take a large serving bowl and mix the Macaroni and half of the cheese sauce evenly. After mixing it add the second half of the cheese sauce and if you want, add any extra add-ins.
5. Bake (Optional)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Experiment with different cheese combinations to create your own signature flavor.
- Add cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or chopped tomatoes for extra depth.
- For a crispy top, broil the mac and cheese for a couple of minutes after baking.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and a suitable flour substitute.
Conclusion
Making homemade mac and cheese recipe is a delightful and straightforward process that results in a dish capable of bringing comfort and joy to any table.
This versatile recipe allows for endless variations, making it easy to cater to individual tastes. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and savor the creamy goodness of homemade mac and cheese.
Your taste buds will thank you! If you have a better recipe for making the dish, you can share that with us in the comments section below.
