Step By Step Guide To Perfectly Creamy Macaroni And Cheese Every Time

This simple macaroni and cheese recipe combines cooked pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese. The sauce thickens to a smooth consistency and coats the pasta evenly. Optionally, you can bake it for a crisp, golden top.

To make this delicious macaroni and cheese, start by cooking the pasta to al dente. Then, prepare a roux with butter and flour, followed by adding milk to create a thick sauce. Stir in cheddar cheese until smooth, and season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika. Once the sauce is ready, mix it with the pasta, ensuring even coating. You can bake it for extra crispiness if desired. This dish is perfect for a quick and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk (whole milk or 2% for creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: A pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or mustard powder for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Cook the Pasta
  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions, usually 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
• Make the Roux (Butter-Flour Base)
  In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes a golden roux. Be careful not to let it burn.
• Add the Milk and Thicken the Sauce
  Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, around 3-4 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
• Incorporate the Cheese
  Reduce the heat to low, and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices (paprika, mustard powder, or garlic powder).
• Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
  Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated evenly with the cheesy goodness.
• Optional: Bake for a Crisp Topping
  If you prefer a baked version with a crispy top, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased baking dish, sprinkle additional cheese or breadcrumbs on top, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly on top.
• Serve
  Once ready, serve the macaroni and cheese hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, or enjoy it just as it is.

Tips for Success:

• Cheese: You can experiment with different cheese combinations like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a more complex flavor.
• Milk: Whole milk gives the sauce richness, but you can use half-and-half for an even creamier sauce or skim milk for a lighter version.
• Texture: If you want an even silkier texture, stir in a little heavy cream with the milk.

Enjoy your simple, homemade macaroni and cheese!