My Mother's Mac and Cheese Recipe How to Make It from www.tasteofhome.com
Introduction
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that everyone loves. It's creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. There are many different ways to make macaroni and cheese, but this recipe is the best one yet. It's easy to make, and the result is a delicious, creamy, and flavorful macaroni and cheese that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
1 pound elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup bread crumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
All of these ingredients should be readily available at your local grocery store.
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. 2. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions until it is al dente. 3. While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. 4. Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk until it forms a smooth paste. 5. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. 6. Add the salt and black pepper and continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. 7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until they are melted and the sauce is smooth. 8. Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the cheese sauce, stirring until the macaroni is coated. 9. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. 10. In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs and olive oil together until the bread crumbs are coated. 11. Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the top of the macaroni and cheese. 12. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. 13. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
This macaroni and cheese recipe makes 12 servings. Each serving contains approximately:
Calories: 455
Protein: 19g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 627mg
This recipe is high in calories and fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Tips and Variations
- You can add different types of cheese to this recipe to create different flavors. Try using Gouda, Monterey Jack, or blue cheese. - Add some vegetables to the macaroni and cheese to make it more nutritious. Broccoli, peas, and spinach are great options. - For a crunchy topping, try using crushed potato chips or French fried onions instead of bread crumbs. - If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, prepare it up to the point of baking, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake it, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed.
Conclusion
This macaroni and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It's easy to make, delicious, and satisfying. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a potluck, this macaroni and cheese is sure to be a hit. So go ahead and give it a try – you won't be disappointed!
