Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese
Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe: How to Make Delicious Cheesy Pasta
Hello everyone! Today, I’m sharing a recipe for homemade Mac and Cheese that you can enjoy right at home. Also known as Macaroni and Cheese, this dish features a delightful combination of tender macaroni pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce. The chewy texture of the macaroni perfectly complements the melt-in-your-mouth, savory cheese sauce, creating an unforgettable taste. Simple yet special, Mac and Cheese is perfect as a snack when you’re craving something comforting, or as an accompaniment to beer or wine. It’s also a fantastic addition to your holiday parties or home gatherings, sure to impress your guests! Let’s get started on making this delicious Mac and Cheese!
Essential Ingredients- 150g Macaroni pasta
- Water (for boiling macaroni)
- 1/3 Tbsp coarse salt (for boiling water)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, in a pot, add plenty of water for boiling the macaroni and stir in 1/3 tablespoon of coarse salt. Boiling water helps to enhance all the flavors of the ingredients.
Step 2
While the water is heating up, prepare 150g of macaroni pasta. The curly shape holds the sauce wonderfully, making it even more delicious.
Step 3
Once the water is at a rolling boil, add the prepared macaroni. Give it a gentle stir to prevent sticking, and cook for about 5-6 minutes. It’s best to cook it ‘al dente’ – slightly firm to the bite – so it doesn’t become mushy. Aim for a texture that still has a pleasant chew!
Step 4
While the macaroni is cooking, let’s get ready to make the delicious cheese sauce. Measure out 15g of unsalted butter.
Step 5
In a wide pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter is fully melted, add 1 tablespoon of flour and whisk constantly until smooth and lump-free. This step creates a ‘roux,’ which is crucial for thickening the sauce. Cook for about 1 minute to remove any raw flour taste.
Step 6
Gradually pour in 200ml of warm milk into the roux while whisking vigorously with a whisk to prevent lumps. Continue to stir and cook over medium-low heat for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency. Once it reaches your desired thickness, reduce the heat to low or turn it off temporarily.
Step 7
Drain the cooked macaroni thoroughly using a colander. Do not rinse it with cold water, as this helps the sauce adhere better and maintains a chewy texture.
Step 8
Now, let’s add that rich flavor! Take the 6 slices of cheddar cheese and add them to the pan with the milk sauce. Stir gently over low heat until the cheese is completely melted and has transformed into a smooth, creamy sauce. Turn off the heat once the cheese is fully melted. Ensuring the cheese melts completely is key to a smooth, non-grainy Mac and Cheese.
Step 9
Prepare an oven-safe dish. Add the cheese sauce and the drained macaroni to the dish. Stir well to ensure the macaroni is evenly coated with the delicious cheese sauce. If the sauce seems a bit too thick, you can add a splash more milk.
Step 10
Season with a pinch of black pepper to your liking. Taste and add a tiny bit more salt if needed (be cautious, as cheddar cheese is already salty!). Place the prepared dish in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) and bake for about 10 minutes. If you don’t have an oven, you can also cook it in a pan over low heat, covered, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 11
Remove the Mac and Cheese from the oven once it’s golden and bubbly. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh dried parsley for a touch of color and aromatic flair, elevating the presentation!
Step 12
Your golden, cheesy Mac and Cheese is complete! Enjoy it hot right away!
