Mac N Cheese Recipe

Mac and cheese is the quintessential comfort food, evoking nostalgia and warmth with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is a surefire hit. Today, we’ll dive into the perfect mac and cheese recipe that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy, golden topping.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 1 pound elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
• Salt for boiling water

For the Cheese Sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk, warmed
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For the Topping

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly. This is your roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley (if using).
2. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked mac and cheese!

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

1. Use High-Quality Cheese: The quality of your cheese will directly affect the flavor and creaminess of your mac and cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a smoother texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, absorbing the cheese sauce and becoming perfectly tender.
3. Customize Your Cheese Blend: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gouda, mozzarella, and fontina are excellent choices that add unique flavors and textures.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time. Assemble it up to the point of baking, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
5. Add Mix-Ins: For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding mix-ins like cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli. These additions can elevate your mac and cheese to a whole new level.

Mac and cheese is a versatile and beloved dish that can be enjoyed year-round. This recipe provides a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy elements, making it a standout at any meal. Give it a try and watch as your family and friends come back for seconds!