Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts and lovers of all things cheesy! Today, we're taking a delicious dive into the world of comfort food with a classic favorite - Easy Macaroni and Cheese. This dish embodies simplicity and comfort, delivering creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. Inspired by a TikTok video from @beautifulmomof6, I'm excited to guide you through creating this timeless recipe that's perfect for satisfying cravings or sharing with loved ones. Let's get started on a journey to mac and cheese heaven!
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Macaroni and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 4 cups water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk (whole milk for creamier results)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will thicken the sauce.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasoning
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese to the milk mixture.
- Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). The paprika adds a lovely smoky flavor.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated with the creamy goodness.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
- Scoop a generous portion of Easy Macaroni and Cheese onto a plate or into a bowl.
- If you like, sprinkle a bit of extra shredded cheese on top for that extra cheesy touch.
Tips for Extra Flair:
- Get creative with your cheese choices. Try a combination of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even a bit of cream cheese for a unique twist.
- For a crunchy topping, transfer your mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for a couple of minutes until golden brown.
There you have it, dear readers! Easy Macaroni and Cheese, a comfort food classic that's as simple to make as it is delightful to savor. Whether you're craving a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy side dish, or a bowl of pure comfort, this recipe has got you covered.
So, gather your ingredients, embrace the cheesy goodness, and let the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese warm your heart and your taste buds. Happy cooking! 🧀🍝🥄