There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a homemade mac and cheese. Perfectly creamy, cheesy, and with just the right amount of flavor, this recipe will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this mac and cheese strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for breadcrumb topping)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Begin by cooking the pasta in salted water according to the package directions. Aim for an al dente texture, as the pasta will continue cooking once it’s combined with the cheese sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low, then slowly add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, a handful at a time, whisking after each addition until melted. Once all the cheese is incorporated, stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat each piece in that rich, creamy goodness. If you prefer a baked mac and cheese with a crunchy topping, continue to the next step.
5. Optional Breadcrumb Topping:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
- Serve hot and enjoy the velvety, cheesy perfection that is homemade mac and cheese!
Pro Tips:
- Cheese Matters: For the best flavor and melt, use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out cheddar for your favorite cheeses—gruyère, gouda, or Monterey Jack work well, too!
- Make It Your Own: Add cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even jalapeños to elevate this dish further.
Enjoy!