Mac and Cheese recipes

 

Macaroni and Cheese, a beloved comfort food, can be made in various ways. Here are two different mac and cheese recipes, one for a classic stovetop version and another for a baked version:

Stovetop Mac and Cheese:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for garnish)
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

   • Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens.

3. Add Cheese:

   • Reduce heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Season the Sauce:

   • Stir in salt, black pepper, and mustard powder (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

5. Combine with Macaroni:

   • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the macaroni is well coated with the cheese sauce.

6. Serve:

   • Spoon the mac and cheese into serving bowls. Sprinkle with paprika and chopped parsley for garnish.

Baked Mac and Cheese:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 2 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

   • Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

   • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens.

3. Add Cheese:

   • Reduce heat to low. Add 2 1/2 cups of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Season the Sauce:

   • Stir in salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.

5. Combine with Macaroni:

   • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the macaroni is well coated with the cheese sauce.

6. Transfer to Baking Dish:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.

7. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs:

   • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Optionally, add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

8. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

9. 
   
   Serve:
   • Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving.

These recipes offer both the creamy stovetop version and the cheesy baked version of mac and cheese. Choose the one that suits your preference or give both a try!