Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese
Table of Contents
- Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese: Grandma's Secret, Elevated
- Gear Up: Your Mac & Cheese Arsenal
- Main Players: The Ingredients
- Spice It Up: Seasoning Secrets
- Prep Like a Pro: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
- Step-by-Step to Cheesy Heaven
- Pro Tips for The Best Macaroni and Cheese
- Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Mac!
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 📝 Recipe Card
Right, let's dive into the good stuff then!
Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese: Grandma's Secret, Elevated
Fancy a bit of comfort food that's like a warm hug? are you looking for a good macaroni and cheese recipe ? i remember my nan used to make something similar.
But it was missing something . so, i've elevated a classic recipe! this homemade mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and utterly divine.
Seriously, it's proper lush.
This version takes the best bits of southern baked macaroni and cheese recipe traditions. think classic american comfort, but with a few modern twists.
Southern baked mac and cheese is always a winner, innit? this baked macaroni and cheese recipe is not hard! prep takes about 20 minutes.
Cooking needs about 35 minutes. it serves 6-8 people.
What Makes This Mac and Cheese Special?
Honestly? it's the flavour. we're talking a rich béchamel base and the perfect blend of cheeses. it is like a mac and cheese thanksgiving side dish dream.
Think cheddar, gruyere, and monterey jack, all melted together in a cheesy symphony. this is potentially the best macaroni and cheese .
It's Healthy ish!
Okay, okay, it's not exactly a salad. but cheese does have protein. and a small portion can be a genuinely soul warming meal.
Plus, it is a perfect excuse to get everyone around the table. i sometimes make this mac and cheese recipe soul food style after a long week.
You know? it is pure joy on a plate.
Now, What You'll Need: A Glimpse at the Ingredients
Ready to get cracking? The full ingredients are below. But, you'll need macaroni, butter, flour, milk, and a load of cheese. It is as simple as that.
Right, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this amazing homemade mac and cheese . honestly, it's simpler than you think! this isn't just any mac and cheese recipe soul food , it’s the recipe that’ll have everyone begging for more.
Gear Up: Your Mac & Cheese Arsenal
First things first, the equipment. Don't panic, it's nothing fancy.
- A big pot: For boiling the pasta, obviously.
- A saucepan: To make that silky smooth cheese sauce.
- A whisk: Key for lump free sauce. Honestly, a fork can work in a pinch, but a whisk is your best mate here.
- A 9x13 inch baking dish: Gotta bake it, right?
- A cheese grater: Because pre-shredded cheese is a culinary sin!
Main Players: The Ingredients
Alright, let's talk ingredients. This good macaroni and cheese recipe starts with quality!
- Pasta: 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente! Nobody wants mushy mac.
- Butter: 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter. This is for the béchamel. Don't skimp!
- Flour: 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour. This thickens the sauce.
- Milk: 4 cups (950ml) whole milk, warmed. Warming it is crucial for a smooth sauce.
- Cheddar: 8 ounces (225g) sharp cheddar, shredded. Buy a block and grate it yourself. Trust me, it melts better.
- Gruyere: 4 ounces (110g) Gruyere, shredded. Adds a nutty, sophisticated flavour.
- Monterey Jack: 4 ounces (110g) Monterey Jack, shredded. This gives it that lovely, melty texture.
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50g) . For a crispy topping.
- Melted butter: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . To mix with the panko.
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
Spice It Up: Seasoning Secrets
This is where the magic happens!
- Nutmeg: A little goes a long way. It adds a warm, comforting flavour.
- Substitutions: No Gruyere? Try Swiss or provolone. Want some heat? A pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick!
This recipe? It's the best mac and cheese in my humble opinion. It's perfect for any occasion, even Mac And Cheese Thanksgiving ! Now, off you pop to the shops! You'll be making a southern baked macaroni and cheese recipe that’s proper lush in no time!
Right then, let's get this show on the road! ever craved that warm, fuzzy feeling only a bowl of homemade mac and cheese can provide? i have! this recipe takes a classic and gives it a cheeky little upgrade.
We're talkin' grandma's secret ingredient... just kidding, she never shared! but this is close enough, promise.
Prep Like a Pro: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
First things first: mise en place , darling. sounds fancy, doesn't it? it just means getting everything ready before you start.
Shred your 8 ounces (225g) sharp cheddar cheese , 4 ounces (110g) gruyere cheese and 4 ounces (110g) monterey jack cheese .
Get your 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni ready, and warm up the 4 cups (950ml) whole milk in the microwave.
It takes like 30 seconds, not too hot, just warm! honestly, this prep makes life so much easier. also, make sure you've got your 9x13 inch baking dish greased and ready to rock.
If you're using panko breadcrumbs for the topping, measure out the 1/2 cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs and melt 2 tablespoons (30ml) melted unsalted butter and pop them in a little bowl.
step-by-step to Cheesy Heaven
Okay, here's how we nail this Southern Baked Macaroni And Cheese Recipe .
- Pasta Time: Boil your macaroni in salted water (about 1 tbsp salt ) until al dente . Don't overcook it, or you'll end up with mush. Drain it well!
- Béchamel Magic: Melt 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter in a saucepan. Whisk in 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour until it forms a paste (a roux). Cook for 1- 2 minutes while stirring.
- Milk It!: Gradually whisk in your warm 4 cups (950ml) whole milk until smooth. No lumps allowed! Simmer and stir constantly until it thickens (about 5- 7 minutes ). Add 1 teaspoon salt , 1/2 teaspoon black pepper , and a pinch of 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg .
- Cheese Dreams: Take the pan off the heat and whisk in your cheese until it's all melted and dreamy. This is where the magic happens.
- Pasta Party: Chuck in your drained macaroni and stir to coat every little elbow in that cheesy goodness. This is the part that is fun and looks so good!
- Bake Time: Pour everything into your baking dish and sprinkle with the panko topping, if you're feeling fancy.
- Bake It Real Good: Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes , until it's bubbly and golden brown. This is where you create the Southern Baked Mac and Cheese.
- Cool It, Dude: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, it's worth the wait.
I've had my fair share of Mac And Cheese Thanksgiving fails, but trust me, this recipe is a winner. Speaking of Thanksgiving, this good macaroni and cheese recipe would be a great side!
Pro Tips for The Best Macaroni and Cheese
- Cheese Choices: Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses! A bit of smoked Gouda or even some blue cheese can add a real kick.
- No Soggy Bottoms: Make sure your pasta is really drained to avoid a soggy baked macaroni and cheese recipe.
- make-ahead Magic: You can assemble the mac & cheese a day ahead and bake it just before serving. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Honestly, making homemade mac and cheese like this is way easier than you think. this mac and cheese recipe soul food -inspired dish will make you the star of any potluck.
You know it and i know it. now go get cookin! and tell me what you think about the best n cheese recipe!
Right, so you've nailed your homemade mac and cheese masterpiece. Congrats! But before you dive in face first (tempting, I know!), let's chat about making it even more epic.
Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Mac!
Serving Up Style: Plating & Presentation
Honestly, even the best good macaroni and cheese recipe looks better with a little pizzazz. think about it: a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a swirl of hot sauce, or even just using a cute serving dish can make all the difference.
I sometimes use individual ramekins for that fancy restaurant vibe, you know?
For a side, something fresh and vibrant. Mac And Cheese Thanksgiving is a pretty common thing, so balancing it with a simple salad is important
Storing Like a Pro: Keepin' It Fresh
Refrigeration is key . pop your leftover best mac n cheese recipe into an airtight container and it'll be good for 3-4 days.
I wouldn't leave it out longer than two hours, mind.
Fancy freezing? freezing options are doable, but be warned: the texture might change a tad. i find it's best if you slightly undercook the pasta initially.
Reheating instructions : a gentle oven bake is best, but the microwave works in a pinch.
Remix Time: Mac & Cheese Variations
Feeling adventurous? Let's jazz things up!
- dairy-free Delight: Swap out the dairy milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Honestly, it's surprisingly good!
- Seasonal Swaps: In autumn, roast some butternut squash and stir it into the southern baked macaroni and cheese recipe . Mac And Cheese Thanksgiving goodness !
Southern Baked Macaroni And Cheese ,
Know Your Noms: Nutrition Basics
Okay, i'm no expert, but a quick heads-up: this southern baked mac and cheese is more of a treat than health food.
That said, it's packed with protein from the cheese and pasta, and calcium, which is important.
Southern Baked Mac And Cheese
Listen, this baked macaroni and cheese recipe soul food is meant to be enjoyed! so go on, grab a fork, and treat yourself.
You deserve it! play around with the best macaroni and cheese . enjoy it!
Mac And Cheese Recipe Soul Food .
The Best Macaroni And Cheese
Baked Macaroni And Cheese Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop my homemade mac and cheese from being grainy?
Grainy mac and cheese is a right bother, isn't it? Usually, it's because the cheese sauce got too hot and the proteins separated. Keep the heat low when melting the cheese, and don't boil it!
Also, adding a bit of cream cheese or a touch of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) can help stabilize the sauce and keep it smooth as silk.
What's the best cheese to use for the ultimate creamy homemade mac and cheese?
Cheese, glorious cheese! For the best creamy mac and cheese, a blend is key. Sharp cheddar gives that classic flavour, Gruyere adds a nutty richness, and Monterey Jack (or even a bit of mozzarella) ensures a lovely, melty texture.
Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains cellulose that prevents proper melting it's worth the elbow grease to shred your own, trust me!
Can I make homemade mac and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the mac and cheese in the baking dish, but don't bake it. Cover it tightly with cling film (press it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
My homemade mac and cheese is a bit bland. How can I add more flavour?
Bland mac and cheese is a tragedy! Firstly, make sure you're seasoning generously with salt and pepper it really does make a difference. For an extra flavour boost, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the béchamel, a dash of hot sauce, or even a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce.
You could also try using smoked cheddar for a lovely smoky flavour.
Is there a healthier version of this creamy baked homemade mac and cheese?
You can certainly make it a bit lighter. Use whole wheat pasta for added fibre. For the cheese sauce, consider using 2% milk instead of whole milk, though the sauce won't be quite as rich.
You can also bulk it up with veggies like steamed broccoli or cauliflower to add nutrients and reduce the overall portion size of the cheesy bits.
How long does leftover homemade mac and cheese last, and what's the best way to reheat it?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the fridge, leftover mac and cheese will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, the oven's your best bet, as the microwave can sometimes dry it out.
Add a splash of milk or cream to the mac and cheese before reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered, until warmed through. Or, for a quick fix, microwave it in short bursts, stirring in a bit of milk between each burst.
Creamy Baked Mac Cheese
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550-650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35-45g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |