Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with Hoggy's Mac and Cheese! This rich and creamy dish is not just any ordinary mac and cheese; it's a cheesy delight that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Don’t miss out on the chance to learn how to whip up this delectable recipe that promises to become a favorite at your table. Dive into the details below and discover the magic of Hoggy's Mac and Cheese!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 8 ounces of elbow macaroni, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of butter, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should be smooth and bubbly, without browning.
- Gradually pour in the 1 cup of milk while continuing to whisk. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika to the cheese sauce. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- When the macaroni is cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir until all the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish if you prefer a baked version, or serve directly from the pot for a creamy stovetop version. If baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven (if baked) and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy Hoggy's Mac and Cheese while it's warm!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the best texture, make sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it's al dente. This will help it hold up against the creamy cheese sauce without becoming mushy.
- Cheese Selection: While sharp cheddar is the star of this recipe, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for added flavor and creaminess.
- Roux Mastery: When making the roux, keep the heat at medium and whisk constantly to prevent it from burning. A smooth roux is key to a velvety cheese sauce.
- Add Some Crunch: For a baked version, consider topping your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter before baking for a deliciously crispy topping.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile and make your mac and cheese even more irresistible.
- Serving Suggestions: Hoggy's Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables, balancing out the richness of the dish.
- Make-Ahead: This recipe can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat in the oven for a quick and satisfying meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 80mg
