Are you ready to experience the most mouthwatering, creamy, and utterly addictive mac and cheese recipe that will transform your dinner game forever? Melissa's legendary macaroni and cheese is not just a side dish – it's a culinary masterpiece that promises to become your family's new favorite comfort food. With its perfectly cooked elbow macaroni and velvety, rich cheese sauce, this recipe is about to revolutionize your home cooking and have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes smooth and completely liquefied.
- Gradually pour the milk into the melted butter, stirring constantly to create a smooth base for the cheese sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and uniform.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it thoroughly in a colander, shaking off excess water.
- Return the drained macaroni to the pot and pour the hot cheese sauce over the pasta. Sprinkle the salt over the mixture.
- Gently stir the macaroni and cheese sauce until every pasta piece is evenly coated and the salt is well distributed.
- Let the macaroni sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and settle.
- Serve hot, directly from the pot, and enjoy Melissa's delicious macaroni and cheese.
Tips
- Always use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, most luxurious sauce – pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Cook your pasta just until al dente to prevent mushy macaroni. Remember, it will continue to absorb the cheese sauce after cooking.
- Stir your cheese sauce constantly to prevent burning and ensure a silky-smooth texture.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar and gruyère.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little extra milk. If it's too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.
- For a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 392kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 13g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
