The classic and beloved comfort food macaroni and cheese is made with cooked macaroni pasta and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. The following is a basic recipe for homemade mac and cheese:
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or any other pasta shape you prefer
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2% recommended)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Optional toppings: bread crumbs, additional shredded cheese, chopped parsley
Instructions:
- Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan or pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens and starts to bubble.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheese to the sauce, reserving some for topping if desired. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika if using. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Optional: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle additional shredded cheese and bread crumbs on top for a crunchy topping.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the mac and cheese for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- If you prefer not to bake it, you can serve the mac and cheese directly from the stovetop.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Serve this comforting and creamy mac and cheese as a main course or as a side dish. It’s a classic that kids and adults alike enjoy, and you can always add your own spin by incorporating different cheeses or toppings to suit your taste preferences.