Cracking Good Mac Cheese from Scratch
Table of Contents
Cracking Good Mac & Cheese From Scratch: A Proper Comfort Food Feast
Fancy a proper mac and cheese from scratch ? Honestly, who doesn't! There is nothing like this, it's the ultimate comfort food, innit? This recipe gives you a creamy, cheesy, and utterly divine homemade mac and cheese recipe easy , guaranteed to banish those cravings.
From Across the Pond to Your Plate
Macaroni n cheese recipe is a classic American dish. It's loved for its simplicity and comforting flavors. This version takes it up a notch.
Forget the powdered stuff. We're making a gourmet mac and cheese from scratch . It will take you a little time, but it's worth the effort.
This recipe is fairly straightforward. It's a medium level affair. It takes about 55 minutes from start to finish. This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe yields 6-8 servings.
Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering of mates.
Why This Mac & Cheese is Simply the Best
One of the main benefits of making mac and cheese from scratch is that it allows you to control the ingredients.
That means you get to eat healthy and feel amazing about your dish! It's perfect for a chilly evening, a potluck, or any time you need a big hug in a bowl.
This best mac n cheese recipe is special. It uses a velvety béchamel sauce . The sauce is loaded with sharp cheddar mac and cheese recipe .
Plus, there is a touch of Gruyère for extra flavour and depth.
Let's get into it! Are you ready for the shopping list?
Right, let’s get down to brass tacks, shall we? This is where we talk about the goodies that make our Cracking Good Mac and Cheese from Scratch sing! Trust me, this Homemade Mac And Cheese Recipe Easy is gonna be a game changer.
Gather 'Round: Ingredients & Kit
Honestly, it is so simple! You will not regret making the Best Mac N Cheese Recipe !
Main Players: Our Star Ingredients
For the macaroni : You'll need 1 pound (454g) of elbow macaroni. Any brand will do. For the flavour, use 1 tablespoon (15ml) salt and enough water to boil. Simple as that.
Now, onto the sauce. Get 6 tablespoons (85g) of unsalted butter. The good stuff is better, you know? Next, you will need ½ cup (60g) of all-purpose flour. Makes all the difference.
For the proper Béchamel cheese sauce for mac and cheese , you'll want 4 cups (946ml) of whole milk. Warm it up a bit.
This really helps everything come together. Then, you'll want 8 ounces (227g) of sharp cheddar cheese and 4 ounces (113g) of Gruyère.
Freshly grated, mind you. If you're feeling fancy, top it off with ½ cup (118ml) heavy cream.
Seasoning Notes: Give It Some Oomph!
Let's talk seasoning. You absolutely need ½ teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg. It adds a certain je ne sais quoi .
Then, ½ teaspoon of white pepper for a bit of warmth. Add 1 teaspoon of salt. Though, honestly, season to your taste, yeah? If you are going for a Gourmet mac and cheese from scratch , this is your section!
Essential Gear: Tools of the Trade
For equipment, don't stress. You'll need a large pot for boiling the pasta. I like using my trusty Le Creuset.
Then a large saucepan for the sauce. A whisk is vital for smooth sauce. You will also need a 9x13 inch (23x33cm) baking dish.
Nothing fancy required.
Honestly, this Creamy Macaroni And Cheese is so good, it's almost criminal!
One last thing: For an Easy homemade mac and cheese bake , preheat that oven to 375° F ( 190° C) .
It’ll be golden and bubbly in no time! Macaroni N Cheese Recipe success guaranteed!
Cooking Method: Baking Our Way to Mac & Cheese Nirvana
Honestly, is there anything more comforting than a big ol’ bowl of mac and cheese from scratch ? I don't think so! This homemade mac and cheese recipe easy is all about baking.
We're taking the creamy macaroni and cheese to the next level by popping it in the oven. Get ready for golden, bubbly goodness!
Prep Steps: The Mac & Cheese Mise en Place
Before we get started, let's get our ducks in a row. This is the essential mise en place
First, get your pasta boiling. Make sure the water is properly salted like the sea, they say! While that's happening, grate your cheeses.
Don't buy pre-grated cheese, it is coated with cellulose. Honestly, grating it yourself makes a world of difference.
Time saving organization tip: Measure out all your spices before you start cooking your béchamel. This will help prevent any panics.
For safety, always use oven mitts when handling hot dishes and be careful when working with boiling water.
step-by-step Process: From Saucepan to Oven
Here is a quick breakdown of the Macaroni n cheese recipe that we're baking.
- Cook your macaroni until al dente. Drain it well.
- Make the béchamel. Melt 6 tablespoons of butter, whisk in ½ cup of flour, and cook for 1- 2 minutes . Slowly whisk in 4 cups of warm milk until smooth. Simmer until thickened, about 5- 7 minutes . Stir in nutmeg, white pepper, and salt.
- Remove the béchamel from the heat and stir in the cheeses ( 8 ounces cheddar, 4 ounces Gruyère if using), then ½ cup heavy cream. Get ready for the Best Mac N Cheese Recipe you've ever had!
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, coating it well.
- Pour the creamy macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with parmesan if you want.
- Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes , until golden brown and bubbly. Visual cue for doneness : the top should be beautifully browned and the cheese sauce should be bubbling around the edges.
Pro Tips: Mac & Cheese Secrets
Here are a couple of expert tips: Warm your milk before adding it to the roux. This helps prevent lumps.
And don't overcook your pasta. Al dente is key for that Homemade Mac And Cheese Casserole texture.
Common mistakes to avoid : Don't burn the roux. Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly. Also, make sure your béchamel is thick enough before adding the cheese.
A thin sauce will result in a watery mac and cheese. Oh my gosh, that is something we don't want!
For a gourmet mac and cheese from scratch , use a good quality sharp cheddar mac and cheese recipe for great flavor.
You can make the cheese sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before mixing it with the pasta and baking. Perfect for the holidays!
Recipe Notes: Making Your Mac Amazing
Right then, let's talk about nailing this mac and cheese from scratch . It's more than just a homemade mac and cheese recipe easy .
It's about making something truly special. Here are a few pointers to make sure yours is the best mac n cheese recipe ever.
Serving Suggestions: Show It Off!
Presentation matters, right? Pile that creamy macaroni and cheese high. A sprig of parsley adds a pop of colour. Honestly, macaroni n cheese recipe is pretty enough on its own.
Serve it with a side salad. A crisp green salad cuts through the richness. A cold beer goes down a treat too.
This is a recipe for macaroni cheese worth showing off.
Storage Tips: Saving Some For Later (If You Can!)
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let it cool completely. Pop it in an airtight container. It'll keep in the fridge for about 3 days.
You can freeze it too. Portion it out first. Reheat it in the oven. Low and slow is the way to go.
Add a splash of milk when reheating. Keeps it creamy . I once made a massive batch for a party. Everyone raved about it for weeks!
Variations: Mix It Up a Bit
Fancy a change? Add some chopped broccoli. Stir in some cooked ham. A little chili flakes gives it a kick.
Want to make it lighter? Try using skimmed milk. It won't be as rich. This is easy homemade mac and cheese bake so it adapts well.
For a sharp cheddar mac and cheese recipe , try a blend of cheeses.
Nutrition Basics: Fuel For The Soul
Alright, let's be honest. This isn't exactly health food. But it's good for the soul. This is gourmet mac and cheese from scratch .
It does contain protein from the cheese and milk. It also has carbs for energy. Everything in moderation, eh? I try to balance it with a healthy side dish.
It's all about balance.
This homemade mac and cheese casserole will be a hit. You’ve got this! Go on, give it a go! You'll have a béchamel cheese sauce for mac and cheese you are proud of.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really worth making mac and cheese from scratch? Sounds like a faff!
Absolutely! While it takes a little more effort than the boxed stuff, the flavour is in a different league. You control the quality of ingredients, avoid all those artificial additives, and end up with a proper comfort food experience, like a warm hug on a chilly day. Think of it as your own personal Mary Berry moment!
Help! My béchamel sauce is lumpy. Is there any saving it?
Don't panic! Lumpy béchamel is a common kitchen mishap. First, try whisking vigorously; sometimes that's enough to smooth it out. If that fails, use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the sauce to a regular blender to blitz it smooth.
And remember, warming the milk slightly beforehand can help prevent lumps in the first place.
What kind of cheese is best for mac and cheese from scratch? Can I mix it up?
Sharp cheddar is a classic for a reason it provides that iconic mac and cheese flavour. But feel free to experiment! Gruyère adds a lovely nutty depth, Monterey Jack melts beautifully, and even a touch of Parmesan can add a savoury kick. Just avoid cheeses that don't melt well, like feta or paneer.
Can I prepare mac and cheese from scratch ahead of time?
You certainly can! Assemble the mac and cheese in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time, and ensure it's heated through properly. You may want to add a splash of milk before baking if it looks a little dry.
How do I store leftover homemade mac and cheese and how long will it last?
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it (adding a splash of milk to loosen it up) or bake it in the oven until warmed through. While you can freeze it, the texture might change slightly upon thawing.
I'm trying to be a bit healthier. Are there any ways to make this mac and cheese from scratch a bit lighter?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat macaroni for extra fibre, and swap some of the cheddar for a lower fat cheese option. Using slightly less cheese overall, bulking with cooked vegetables (like steamed broccoli or spinach), and serving smaller portions can also help. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet!
Cracking Good Mac Cheese From Scratch
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30-35g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |