What is the Recipe About?
Classic Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, loved by both kids and adults alike. This dish features tender elbow macaroni coated in a creamy, rich cheese sauce, creating a deliciously indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Simple yet satisfying, this homemade version of the classic is far superior to the boxed varieties, bringing warmth and nostalgia with every bite.
How to Serve?
Serve Classic Mac and Cheese hot from the oven, ideally in a large casserole dish for family-style dining. For individual portions, spoon the creamy pasta into bowls.
Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or some garlic bread.
This dish is perfect as a main course for lunch or dinner, and can also be a crowd-pleasing addition to potlucks and gatherings.
How to Pair?
Classic Mac and Cheese pairs excellently with a variety of sides and drinks.
For a hearty meal, serve it alongside roasted chicken, barbecue ribs, or grilled sausages. A light, refreshing salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the cheese sauce.
When it comes to beverages, opt for a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a robust beer such as an IPA. For non-alcoholic options, try iced tea, lemonade, or a sparkling water with a splash of citrus.
Some Notes About the Recipe
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to use other short pasta shapes like cavatappi, fusilli, or penne. Cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Cheese Sauce: Use a combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyère for a rich, flavorful sauce. You can also experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Béchamel Base: The creamy sauce starts with a classic béchamel base. Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to form a roux, and gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.
- Baking: After mixing the pasta with the cheese sauce, transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Add-Ins: Customize your mac and cheese with add-ins like crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even a handful of fresh spinach for added texture and flavor.
Classic Mac and Cheese
Equipment
- 1 9×13 inch baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni cooked al dente
- 1/2 cup cup butter divided
- 1/2 cup cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups cups milk warmed
- 2 cups cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 cups cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 teaspoon teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350℉ (175℃). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter and toss with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.