Few dishes evoke the same level of comfort and satisfaction as a perfectly creamy and indulgent mac and cheese. This home-style recipe promises to deliver just that, with its rich cheese sauce enveloping tender pasta. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or making it the star of the meal, this classic comfort food is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients for Home-Style Mac and Cheese:
- 1 pound (16 ounces) elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
How to Make Home-Style Mac and Cheese:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
- If desired, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious home-style mac and cheese!
About the Main Ingredients:
- Pasta: The choice of pasta can vary based on personal preference. Traditional elbow macaroni works well, but you can also use shells, penne, or any other shape you prefer.
- Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère cheese creates a rich and complex flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to customize the dish to your liking.
- Milk and Butter: Whole milk and butter are essential for creating a creamy and luscious cheese sauce. Opting for whole milk adds richness, while the butter enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
With its creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this home-style mac and cheese recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Serve it as a comforting side dish or make it the centerpiece of your next family dinner—it’s sure to be a hit!
