Homemade macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, loved by kids and adults alike. While there are countless variations, the perfect mac and cheese should be creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned. Here’s a simple recipe to guide you through making the ultimate homemade macaroni and cheese from scratch, along with tips to customize it to your taste!
Ingredients
For the Macaroni:
– 8 ounces (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)
– Salt (for pasta water)
For the Cheese Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk (whole milk is best for creaminess)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar is classic, but a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère works wonderfully)
For the Topping (optional):
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works well for extra crunch)
– 1 tablespoon melted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper (for a bit of heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water in case your cheese sauce needs thinning later.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux (this helps thicken the cheese sauce).
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Turn the heat up to medium-high and continue whisking until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Once thickened, add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Gradually stir in the shredded cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking (optional)
If you prefer a baked version with a crispy topping, follow these additional steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish (9×9 or similar size).
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter and paprika or cayenne (if using). Mix well to coat the breadcrumbs.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Macaroni and Cheese
– Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheeses. Stronger cheeses like aged cheddar, Gouda, or Fontina add depth of flavor. For creaminess, combine with softer cheeses such as mozzarella or cream cheese.
– Add-Ins: Customize your macaroni and cheese with add-ins such as cooked bacon, chopped broccoli, caramelized onions, or jalapeños for an extra kick.
– Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices such as smoked paprika, cayenne, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra flavor boost!
– Storage: Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if it appears dry.
Conclusion
Homemade macaroni and cheese is a delightful dish that can be tailored to your tastes. Whether you prefer it creamy and comforting or baked with a crunchy topping, following this simple recipe will help you create the perfect version in your own kitchen. Enjoy your delicious homemade mac and cheese!