Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this classic Homemade Mac and Cheese. This recipe takes the beloved dish to the next level by combining tender pasta with a rich, creamy béchamel sauce and plenty of sharp cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, this mac and cheese is topped with a golden, gooey layer of melted cheese that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just to satisfy a cheesy craving, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table

Ingredients

• Your favorite pasta (enough for 4-6 servings)
• 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups half & half
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Preparation Method

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Grate the Cheese: While the pasta is cooking, grate about 2 1/2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese. Set aside 2 cups of the cheese for the sauce and 1/2 cup to sprinkle on top.

Make the Béchamel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux, whisking constantly, for about 2 minutes, or until it turns a light golden color. Gradually add the half & half, continuing to whisk to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken, about 3-4 minutes. Once thickened, season with salt, pepper, mustard powder, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Remove from heat.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese, and the hot béchamel sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Top and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta mixture in the baking dish. This will create a gooey, golden crust as it bakes. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve: Once baked, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of this homemade mac and cheese with a crisp green salad or as a decadent side dish.

Tips and Conclusion

Tip
For an extra crunchy topping, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or Fontina, to add more depth of flavor to the dish.

Conclusion
This Homemade Mac and Cheese is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. The creamy béchamel sauce, combined with the sharp cheddar cheese and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a luxurious meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or sharing it with loved ones, this mac and cheese is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy perfection!