Get ready to experience comfort food at its finest with this Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe! Rich and creamy, this dish is not just easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this recipe is the perfect choice for any occasion.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 530
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 29g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 650mg
Why Make Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Making your own macaroni and cheese allows you to control the ingredients, making it a healthier option compared to the store-bought versions. You can customize the flavors and cheese to suit your taste, ensuring that every dish is unique and special. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring family together over a meal that brings back warm childhood memories.
How to Make Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe Step by Step
Ingredients
4 cups dried macaroni
1 egg
1/4 cup salted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups whole milk
2 heaping tsp. dry mustard, plus more to taste
1 lb. cheese (such as cheddar, jack, and/or fontina), grated
1/2 tsp. kosher salt, more to taste
1/2 tsp. seasoned salt, plus more to taste
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
Cayenne pepper, paprika, and/or thyme (optional)
Directions
Cook the macaroni until it is very firm, almost too firm to eat right out of the pot. Drain and set aside. Beat the egg in a small bowl. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat and sprinkle in the flour. Whisk constantly and cook the mixture for 5 minutes, making sure it does not burn. Slowly pour in the milk and add the dry mustard while whisking until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 5 minutes until the sauce becomes very thick. Reduce the heat to low. Take 1/4 cup of the hot sauce and slowly pour it into the beaten egg, whisking constantly to prevent the egg from cooking. Whisk the mixture until smooth. Pour the egg mixture back into the pot with the sauce, whisking constantly until fully incorporated and smooth. Stir in the grated cheese until melted and smooth. Add kosher salt, seasoned salt, black pepper, and any optional cayenne, paprika, or thyme. Taste and adjust salt and seasonings as needed to avoid under-salting. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat evenly. Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish, top with extra cheese if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Remove from the oven and serve hot.
How to Serve Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
This Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with a side of crispy green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or BBQ ribs for a heartier option. For a fun twist, top it off with breadcrumbs or extra cheese before baking for added crunch.
How to Store Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions for up to three months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor; cheddar, jack, and fontina work wonderfully together.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni; a little firmness allows it to hold up in the cheese sauce.
- Always taste your cheese sauce before mixing in the macaroni to adjust seasonings.
- If you want a bit of heat, adding cayenne or paprika can elevate the dish.
- For a creamier texture, consider mixing in cream cheese or sour cream.
Delicious Variations of Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
For a spicier version, add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. If you’re a fan of herbs, incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor twist. For a lighter option, swap out half of the pasta for steamed cauliflower to add some vegetables without losing the creamy goodness.
Conclusion
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make this Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines rich flavors with delightful textures, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. Try it today and savor the comfort it brings to your table!
Classic Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups dried macaroni
- 1 each egg
- 1/4 cup salted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 heaping tsp. dry mustard plus more to taste
- 1 lb. cheese (cheddar, jack, and/or fontina), grated
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt more to taste
- 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt more to taste
- 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
- Cayenne pepper, paprika, and/or thyme optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the macaroni until very firm, then drain and set aside.
- Beat the egg in a small bowl.
Making the Sauce
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat and sprinkle in the flour.
- Whisk constantly and cook for 5 minutes, ensuring it does not burn.
- Slowly pour in the milk and add the dry mustard while whisking until smooth.
- Cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce heat to low, take 1/4 cup of the hot sauce and pour it into the beaten egg while whisking to prevent cooking.
- Whisk until smooth and then pour back into the pot, whisking constantly.
- Stir in the grated cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add kosher salt, seasoned salt, black pepper, and optional spices; adjust to taste.
Combining and Baking
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish, top with extra cheese if desired.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Remove from oven and serve hot.
