the best Mac and cheese recipe

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy, cheesy mac & cheese to comfort and satisfy your cravings. This Velvety Stovetop Mac & Cheese recipe is perfect for those who love their mac & cheese smooth and creamy, with every bite melting in your mouth. If you’re a fan of baked mac & cheese, don’t worry—you can easily turn this stovetop version into a baked delight. Let’s dive into the details and make the best mac & cheese you’ve ever had!

Ingredients

  • 250g dry macaroni
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni

Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce

  • Melt the Butter: In a large pot or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Make the Roux: Add the flour to the melted butter and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to form a roux. This helps to thicken the sauce.
  • Add Dairy and Spices: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and milk. Then, add the mustard powder and smoked paprika. Continue to whisk until the sauce starts to thicken.

3. Incorporate the Cheese

  • Remove from Heat: Take the pot off the heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
  • Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Mix Together: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until all the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
  • Serve Immediately: Serve the mac & cheese immediately for the best texture and flavor.

For Baked Mac & Cheese Lovers

If you prefer your mac & cheese baked with a crispy topping, follow these additional steps:

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the prepared mac & cheese into an oven-safe dish.
  • Add Toppings: Sprinkle additional shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, or any other preferred toppings over the top.
  • Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.

Tips for the Best Mac & Cheese

  • Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
  • Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.
  • Spice It Up: Feel free to add more spices or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot for cooking macaroni
  • Large skillet or pot for making the cheese sauce
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Oven-safe dish (if baking)

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover mac & cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.

Variations and Swaps

  • Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
  • Add-Ins: Incorporate cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added texture and taste.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Perfect Pairings

This creamy mac & cheese pairs wonderfully with:

  • Green Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette to balance the richness of the mac & cheese.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Try serving with grilled asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini.
  • Crispy Chicken: For a hearty meal, pair with crispy chicken tenders or grilled chicken breast.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the mac & cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream.

Q: Can I freeze mac & cheese? A: Yes, you can freeze mac & cheese. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream? A: You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a substitute for heavy cream, though the sauce may be less rich.

Q: How can I make it spicy? A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.

Call to Action

I hope you enjoy this Velvety Stovetop Mac & Cheese recipe as much as I do! If you loved it, please share this recipe with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!

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