The Best Simple Mac And Cheese Recipe
What is Mac and Cheese?
Mac and cheese is an iconic American dish that is loved by all ages. It is a creamy and cheesy dish made with elbow macaroni pasta and a cheese sauce. It is a classic comfort food that is easy to make and incredibly delicious. It is a perfect dish to serve at potlucks, family dinners, or any special occasion. There are many variations on the classic dish, but this simple recipe will leave you and your family wanting more.
Ingredients for the Best Simple Mac and Cheese
To make this classic dish, you will need the following ingredients: 8 ounces of elbow macaroni pasta, 3 tablespoons of butter, 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon of dry mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Instructions for Making the Best Simple Mac and Cheese
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni pasta and cook for 8 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir until a paste is formed. Cook for one minute, stirring constantly. Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth. Add the dry mustard, salt, and pepper and stir until combined. Turn the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the cheddar and Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni pasta and cheese sauce. Stir until combined. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Serving the Best Simple Mac and Cheese
Once the mac and cheese is finished baking, remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve hot in individual bowls. Enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Simple Mac and Cheese
For a creamier mac and cheese, add an extra 1/2 cup of milk and an extra 1/4 cup of grated cheese. For a richer flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the cheese sauce. For added texture, try adding some crumbled bacon, diced ham, or cooked vegetables to the mac and cheese. For a cheesier dish, top with extra grated cheese.
Conclusion
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is sure to please the whole family. This simple recipe is easy to make and incredibly delicious. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can have a creamy and cheesy dish in no time. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to make this delicious dish!