Best Mac and Cheese Recipe (with Video)

Best Mac and Cheese Recipe: Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food enjoyed by people of all ages. While it’s easy to pop open a box of pre-made mac and cheese, there’s something special about making it from scratch. Homemade mac and cheese is richer, creamier, and infinitely customizable.

This guide will show you a step-by-step recipe for crafting the ultimate mac and cheese that’s both creamy and flavorful, with a golden, crispy topping if you choose to bake it. Let’s dive into creating the best mac and cheese you’ll ever taste!

Ingredients

To make mac and cheese from scratch, here are the ingredients you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients:

• Pasta: 1 lb of elbow macaroni or any short pasta (cavatappi, shells, or penne work well).
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, for making the roux.
• Flour: 4 tablespoons, to thicken the sauce.
• Milk: 4 cups of whole milk, for a creamy sauce (2% milk also works, but avoid skim).
• Cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella or gruyere for smooth melting.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.

Optional Ingredients for Customization:

• Breadcrumbs: ½ cup for a crispy baked topping.
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, for added flavor.
• Paprika or Mustard Powder: A pinch, for depth of flavor.
• Garlic or Onion Powder: A small amount for added seasoning.

These ingredients are simple but will make a rich, creamy mac and cheese. Let’s move on to the equipment you’ll need.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Basic Equipment:

• Large Pot: For boiling pasta.
• Colander: To drain pasta.
• Saucepan: For making the cheese sauce.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth roux and sauce.
• Baking Dish (optional): For the baked version.

Additional Tools (Optional):

• Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure ingredients accurately.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Choosing the right pasta is the first step to making perfect mac and cheese. Elbow macaroni is classic, but other short shapes like shells or cavatappi work well too.

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 4 quarts of water for every pound of pasta to prevent sticking.
2. Add Pasta: Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package directions. Aim for an al dente texture since the pasta will cook slightly more when mixed with the sauce.
3. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse, as you want the pasta to retain some starch to help the sauce stick.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce (Roux Method)

The secret to creamy mac and cheese is the roux, a cooked mixture of butter and flour that thickens the sauce.

1. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter until it’s completely melted and slightly bubbling.
2. Add Flour: Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour to create a thick paste. This is the roux and will be the base for the cheese sauce.
3. Cook the Roux: Let the roux cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps eliminate any raw flour taste, giving your sauce a smooth, rich flavor.

Step 3: Add Milk Gradually

Adding milk slowly to the roux helps create a creamy, lump-free sauce.

1. Pour Milk Slowly: Gradually pour in 4 cups of milk, a little at a time, whisking continuously. This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents clumping.
2. Stir and Simmer: Once all the milk is added, bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently. This step ensures the roux thickens the milk into a creamy base for the cheese.
3. Season: Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of paprika or mustard powder for extra depth.

Step 4: Add Cheese to the Sauce

Cheese is the star of mac and cheese! Choose cheeses that melt well and add depth to the flavor.

1. Gradually Add Cheese: Turn off the heat and slowly add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella or gruyere, a handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.
2. Ensure Smooth Consistency: Stir until the sauce is thick and creamy. Avoid over-stirring, as this can make the sauce stringy.
3. Taste Test: Add more salt and pepper if needed, adjusting to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Now that you have a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s time to bring it all together.

1. Add Pasta to Sauce: Pour the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat every piece of pasta evenly.
2. Mix Well: Ensure that the cheese sauce fully coats the pasta. The sauce should cling to each piece without being too thick or too runny.

Step 6: Optional Baking Step

Baking mac and cheese adds a crispy, golden-brown layer on top, making it extra special. While this step is optional, it’s highly recommended for those who love a bit of crunch in every bite.

1. Transfer to Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
2. Add Topping (Optional): Sprinkle ½ cup of breadcrumbs and, if you like, a bit of parmesan cheese on top. This adds a crispy texture to the dish.
3. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. If you want extra crunch, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Step 7: Add Toppings (Optional)

Toppings are a great way to customize your mac and cheese and elevate its flavor. Here are some popular toppings to try:

• Breadcrumbs: Adds a classic crunch when baked.
• Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon bits add a smoky, savory taste.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or chives can add freshness.
• Extra Cheese: Adding an extra layer of shredded cheese on top creates a gooey crust.

Simply sprinkle your preferred toppings over the mac and cheese before baking to give it a unique twist.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection (If Baked)

For those who choose the baking route, this step is crucial to achieving a perfect mac and cheese.

1. Bake Time and Temperature: Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbling on top.
2. Check Consistency: The cheese should be melted and creamy, with the top crisp and slightly browned.
3. Cool Before Serving: Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If baking isn’t your preference, there are other ways to cook mac and cheese. Here are two popular alternative methods:

Stovetop-Only Version

1. Skip the Baking: Instead of transferring to a baking dish, simply serve the mac and cheese directly from the stovetop. This method yields a creamier texture without the crispy topping.
2. Adjust Consistency: If the stovetop mac and cheese is too thick, add a bit of milk to reach your desired creaminess.

Slow Cooker Method

1. Add Ingredients: Combine cooked pasta, cheese, milk, and seasonings in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker to low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until the cheese is melted and creamy.
3. Optional Toppings: Add breadcrumbs, bacon, or herbs on top and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes for a crunchy finish.

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

Achieving perfect mac and cheese requires a few expert tips. Here’s how to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce and rich flavor every time:

1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grating your cheese ensures a creamy sauce.
2. Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Cook pasta to al dente. Overcooked pasta will turn mushy when mixed with sauce.
3. Don’t Overheat the Cheese Sauce: High heat can cause cheese to become grainy. Add cheese with the heat off and stir until it melts smoothly.

Serving Suggestions

Mac and cheese is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Salads: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of mac and cheese.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or brussels sprouts add color and flavor.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of buttery garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch.
• Protein Sides: Consider pairing with baked chicken, meatballs, or smoked sausages for a more filling meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Mac and cheese can be stored and reheated, making it a great meal to enjoy later.

1. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of milk to prevent it from drying out, then heat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
3. Freezing: Mac and cheese can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple dishes like mac and cheese can go awry if a few common mistakes aren’t avoided:

1. Using Low-Fat Cheese: Low-fat cheese doesn’t melt as well and may result in a grainy texture. Opt for regular, full-fat cheese for the creamiest sauce.
2. Skipping the Roux Step: The roux is key to a stable, creamy sauce. Skipping this step can result in a runny or lumpy sauce.
3. Over-Stirring the Cheese Sauce: Over-stirring melted cheese can make the sauce stringy. Add cheese off the heat and stir gently until it melts.

FAQs about the Best Mac and Cheese Recipe

1. What makes the best mac and cheese?

The best mac and cheese often balances a creamy, rich sauce with a hint of sharpness from cheddar or other cheeses. A mix of cheeses, like mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan, adds depth, while adding seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or mustard can elevate the flavors.

2. Should I use fresh or pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese is ideal, as it melts more smoothly and doesn’t contain anti-caking agents, which can affect the sauce’s texture. Pre-shredded cheese works in a pinch but may result in a slightly grainier texture.

3. What type of pasta works best for mac and cheese?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but other pasta shapes with grooves or ridges, like shells or cavatappi, can hold onto the sauce better, making each bite extra creamy.

4. Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble mac and cheese in advance and bake it before serving. If making it ahead, consider undercooking the pasta slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.

5. How can I make mac and cheese creamier?

To achieve a creamier mac and cheese, use a béchamel sauce as the base and add heavy cream or a touch of sour cream. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the sauce.

Conclusion

Homemade mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and with this step-by-step guide, you can master the art of creamy, cheesy perfection. Whether you enjoy it straight from the stovetop or baked with a crispy topping, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. With fresh ingredients, a few simple techniques, and a little patience, you’ll have a delicious mac and cheese that’s miles above anything from a box. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to indulge in the best mac and cheese you’ve ever had!

References

To ensure the accuracy and enhance the quality of the information provided in our Best Mac and Cheese Recipe, we’ve compiled a list of reputable sources. These references offer in-depth details, variations, and expert tips on crafting the ultimate mac and cheese. Dive into these resources for further reading and to validate the steps and ingredients in the recipe:

1. AllRecipes – Mac and Cheese Recipes: A trusted platform with various mac and cheese recipes, including classic, creamy, and baked options. Visit AllRecipes
2. Food Network – Ultimate Macaroni and Cheese: Explore Food Network’s expert insights and chef-tested recipes to elevate your mac and cheese. Visit Food Network
3. Bon Appétit – The Best Mac and Cheese: Known for its culinary expertise, Bon Appétit shares techniques and ingredients for making the perfect mac and cheese. Visit Bon Appétit
4. Serious Eats – How to Make Mac and Cheese: A deep dive into the science of cheese sauces and pasta pairing for that perfect texture. Visit Serious Eats

These sources provide additional knowledge to ensure a delicious, foolproof mac and cheese experience.