Indulging in a classic comfort dish like mac and cheese brings warmth to the soul and joy to the taste buds. This good old-fashioned recipe offers a creamy, cheesy delight that’s bound to evoke nostalgia and satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients:
To embark on this culinary journey, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 4 Tbsp salted butter
- 2 (370 mL/12 oz) cans evaporated milk
- 1/3 cup milk of choice
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 tsp garlic salt
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp paprika
Directions:
- Pasta Perfection: Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until it reaches al dente texture, typically about 8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni well.
- Creamy Foundation: In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the evaporated milk, your preferred milk, and the garlic salt. Heat the mixture until it’s hot but not boiling.
- Egg-cellent Addition: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the two large eggs. To achieve a creamy texture, gradually whisk about a quarter of the hot milk mixture into the eggs. Then, whisk the egg mixture back into the pot with the hot milk, tempering the eggs to prevent scrambling.
- Cheese Galore: Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Add the drained macaroni to the pot and stir to coat. Incorporate 3 cups of cheddar cheese and 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and coats the macaroni evenly.
- Mix ’em up: Transfer the macaroni and cheese into a serving dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and paprika over the top for a hint of smokiness and color.
Tips:
- Ensure the macaroni is cooked al dente to maintain its texture in the final dish.
- Gradually whisking the hot milk mixture into the beaten eggs helps prevent them from scrambling and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Stir the cheese continuously until it melts completely to avoid clumps and achieve a uniform cheesy coating.
Conclusion:
With the last sprinkle of cheddar cheese and paprika, this classic mac and cheese recipe is ready to serve. Delight in the creamy, cheesy goodness with each forkful, and witness faces light up with the first delectable bite. Indulge in this timeless comfort dish, perfect for any occasion or simply for a heartwarming meal at home.
- Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Certainly! While elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for mac and cheese, you can experiment with other pasta shapes such as shells, penne, or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s shape and size, aiming for al dente texture. - Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and reheat it when needed. After combining the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. - Can I freeze leftovers for later consumption?
Yes, you can freeze leftover mac and cheese for future enjoyment. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. To freeze, transfer the cooled mac and cheese to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove any excess air to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. - What are some variations or additions I can incorporate into this recipe?
Mac and cheese is a versatile dish, and there are numerous variations and additions you can try to customize it according to your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a savory twist.
- Stir in some cooked vegetables such as broccoli, peas, or spinach to sneak in some extra nutrients.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère, fontina, or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the mac and cheese before baking.
- Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or mustard powder for a subtle kick of heat or tanginess.
- For a luxurious touch, drizzle truffle oil over the finished dish just before serving. Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary requirements.