Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through a classic comfort food that has been passed down through generations! This isn't just another mac and cheese recipe - this is Nana's legendary Hoop Cheese Macaroni and Cheese that promises to transport you back to cozy family dinners and warm kitchen memories. With its creamy, rich texture and perfectly balanced flavors, this dish is about to become your new go-to comfort meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups hoop cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, 2 cups of shredded hoop cheese, 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of butter, salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, reduce the heat to low.
- Slowly add the milk to the melted butter, stirring constantly to combine. Allow the mixture to heat through, but do not let it boil.
- Gradually add the shredded hoop cheese to the milk and butter mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and paprika. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, ensuring a balanced flavor.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the drained macaroni, stirring well to ensure all the pasta is coated evenly with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare to bake the macaroni and cheese.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy Nana's delicious Hoop Cheese Macaroni and Cheese with family and friends!
Tips
- Always use freshly shredded hoop cheese for the best melting and flavor profile.
- Watch your milk and butter mixture carefully - heat it gently to prevent scorching.
- For extra creaminess, ensure you stir the cheese sauce continuously while melting.
- Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente to prevent mushy texture.
- If you can't find hoop cheese, a mild cheddar can be a good substitute.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set slightly.
- For a crispy top, consider adding breadcrumbs before baking.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot for making the cheese sauce to ensure even heating.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
