Old Fashioned Mac And Cheese Recipe
Everyone can make some mac and cheese at home but not everyone can make the best tasting mac and cheese, if you want to learn to make the best tasting mac and cheese, then this simple mac and cheese recipe is what you need to follow.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 ounces about 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta shape of your choice
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder optional
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika optional
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for topping
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the roux is golden brown and fragrant.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and comes to a simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Bake the Mac and Cheese:
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the mac and cheese for extra flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the baked mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
- Serve the mac and cheese hot as a comforting and delicious meal or side dish.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!