Are you ready to experience the most mouthwatering, creamy, and nostalgic mac n cheese recipe that will transport you straight back to childhood? This isn't just another mac n cheese recipe - this is a culinary masterpiece passed down through generations, guaranteed to make everyone at your table beg for seconds! Prepare yourself for a cheesy adventure that combines rich, velvety sauce with perfectly cooked pasta in a dish so irresistible, it'll become your new family favorite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni, 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 3 cups milk, 1/4 cup butter, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp paprika.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should become bubbly and slightly golden.
- Gradually add the 3 cups of milk to the roux, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be smooth and creamy.
- Once the milk mixture has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until completely melted and smooth.
- Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika to the cheese sauce, mixing well to incorporate all the flavors.
- When the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and then return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni, stirring gently to combine until all the pasta is evenly coated.
- For an extra touch, you can transfer the mac n cheese to a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle additional cheese or breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Mom's Mac n Cheese!
Tips
- Always use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest, most flavorful sauce. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Cook your pasta just until al dente - it will continue cooking slightly in the cheese sauce, preventing mushy noodles.
- Whisk your roux (butter and flour mixture) continuously to prevent burning and ensure a smooth base for your sauce.
- Add milk gradually and keep whisking to avoid lumps in your sauce.
- For extra richness, consider using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or monterey jack.
- If you want a crispy top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or extra cheese before baking.
- Let the mac n cheese rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and become creamy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 85mg
