Get ready to experience the ultimate mac and cheese recipe that has been passed down through generations, promising to transport you straight to comfort food heaven! This isn't just another mac and cheese recipe - this is a nostalgic, creamy, and absolutely irresistible dish that will have your family begging for seconds. Prepare to unlock the secret to the most decadent, mouth-watering mac and cheese that combines classic techniques with pure culinary magic.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your mac and cheese bakes evenly and gets a nice golden crust on top.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should be bubbly and slightly golden.
- Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Drain the cooked macaroni and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir until all the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. If desired, season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter (about 1 tablespoon) to help them brown in the oven. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Once baked, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set slightly for easier serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy Grandma T's Mac and Cheese with your favorite sides or as a delicious main dish!
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for the smoothest, most luxurious sauce.
- Don't rush the roux - taking time to cook the butter and flour mixture ensures a rich, smooth base.
- Stir your pasta frequently while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- For extra crunch, mix some panko breadcrumbs with your regular breadcrumbs.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
- For a flavor twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some crispy bacon bits to the cheese sauce.
- If the top isn't browning enough, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 85mg
