Name: Simple Macaroni and Cheese: Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces (225 g) elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk; 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream; 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional); 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese; Optional topping for baked version:; 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese

Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food quite like macaroni and cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying, this classic recipe has become a staple in households worldwide. It brings people together, whether served as a weeknight dinner, a side at family gatherings, or the star of a cozy night in. The beauty of macaroni and cheese lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity. With a handful of ingredients and a straightforward process, you can prepare a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. This recipe focuses on a simple version of macaroni and cheese, offering rich taste without unnecessary complications.

Ingredients

Precision ensures consistency. Gather the following:

8 ounces (225 g) elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for depth of flavor)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and smokiness)
2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (for meltiness)

Optional topping for baked version:

1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the roux

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add milk and cream

Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Stir constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 4: Season the sauce

Stir in mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Melt the cheeses

Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella gradually, stirring after each addition until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine pasta and sauce

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until every piece of pasta is coated. At this point, you have a stovetop version ready to serve.

Step 7 (Optional): Bake for extra texture

For a baked finish, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a buttered baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan, then sprinkle evenly over the top. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Conservation and Storage

Macaroni and cheese tastes best fresh, but it stores well for later meals.

Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Freezing: Cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) after thawing overnight in the fridge.
Avoid overcooking when reheating: Adding a little milk or cream helps maintain texture.

Variations

Classic twists

Four-Cheese Blend: Combine Gruyère, fontina, gouda, and cheddar for deeper flavor.
Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Meaty Upgrade: Mix in cooked bacon, ham, or ground beef.

Healthy swaps

Vegetable Boost: Add broccoli florets, spinach, or roasted cauliflower.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap regular pasta for a fiber-rich version.
Lightened Sauce: Use reduced-fat milk and less cream for a lighter dish.

Gourmet options

Truffle Mac: Drizzle with truffle oil or add a few drops of truffle essence.
Lobster Mac and Cheese: Fold in chunks of cooked lobster for a luxurious version.
Smoked Cheese Variation: Use smoked cheddar for a bold, unique flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Macaroni and cheese adapts easily to different occasions.

Main Course: Serve with a simple green salad to balance richness.
Side Dish: Pair with barbecue, fried chicken, or roasted meats.
Family Style: Place in a casserole dish for gatherings, topped with golden breadcrumbs.
Individual Portions: Serve in ramekins for a more refined presentation.
Toppings: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving for freshness.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect smooth melting.
Don’t overcook pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta prevents mushiness when combined with sauce.
Balance flavors: Cheddar gives sharpness, Parmesan adds saltiness, and mozzarella provides creaminess.
Control sauce thickness: If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of warm milk. If too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes.
Baked version tips: Always cool the sauce slightly before baking to prevent separation.

Conclusion

Simple macaroni and cheese proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that is creamy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. From stovetop simplicity to baked perfection with a crispy topping, it adapts to every craving and occasion. Whether enjoyed as a quick dinner, a hearty side, or elevated with gourmet twists, macaroni and cheese continues to hold its place as a timeless favorite. Mastering this recipe ensures you’ll always have a dish that comforts, satisfies, and delights.

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Simple Macaroni and Cheese: Comfort in Every Bite

Author: hafsahafsa
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this simple macaroni and cheese recipe delivers indulgent flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side dish for gatherings, it combines tender pasta with a rich cheese sauce that everyone will love.