Home Made Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked macaroni and cheese. A classic comfort food recipe.
Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked macaroni and cheese. A classic comfort food recipe.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 (16 ounce) package elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons mccormick® mustard, ground
- 1 1/2 teaspoons mccormick® black pepper, coarse grind
- 1 teaspoon mccormick® garlic powder
- 6 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon mccormick® paprika
- Carbohydrate 36.4
- Cholesterol 65
- Fat 22.2
- Protein 19.2
- Sodium 550
- Calories 413 calories;
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Cook macaroni in large saucepan as directed on package for al dente pasta. Rinse under cold water; drain well.
- Melt butter in same saucepan on medium heat.
- Sprinkle with flour and seasonings.
- Cook and stir 2 minutes or until well blended.
- Gradually stir in milk until smooth.
- Stirring constantly, cook 3 minutes or until sauce starts to thicken.
- Stir in cheese until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat.
- Add macaroni; toss gently to coat.
- Pour into greased 13x9-inch baking dish.
- Mix panko and paprika; sprinkle evenly over top.
- Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
My Favorite Weeknight Mac and Cheese
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Most nights, I'm juggling work deadlines, after-school activities, and the ever-present laundry mountain. The last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I rely on simple, yet flavorful recipes that the whole family enjoys – and this mac and cheese is a perfect example. It's comforting, cheesy, and satisfying, yet surprisingly easy to make. The best part? It’s adaptable. If I have leftover roasted vegetables, I'll toss them in. If I'm feeling indulgent, I'll add a sprinkle of bacon crumbles. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe isn't just about convenience though; it’s about bringing a little bit of joy to an otherwise hectic week. The smell of that bubbling cheese sauce baking in the oven is pure magic. It transforms our kitchen from a space of busy preparation into a cozy haven, where the aroma of home-cooked food fills the air. My kids immediately perk up when they smell it baking, their eyes lighting up with anticipation. The simple act of sharing a warm, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese at the end of a long day is a little moment of happiness that we all cherish. It's more than just dinner; it's a connection, a tradition, a way to reconnect and relax as a family. It's the kind of comfort food that reminds me of simpler times, a nostalgic taste of childhood warmth.
The ingredients are straightforward – elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, butter, flour, milk, and some simple seasonings. I always keep these staples on hand because you never know when a craving for creamy, cheesy goodness will strike. And, believe me, it strikes often in our house! The panko breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. It's the perfect finishing touch. This recipe is a winner because it's dependable, delicious, and adaptable – perfect for a weeknight meal. I can whip it up in about 30 minutes, leaving me with more time to spend with my family instead of being stuck in the kitchen. And that, my friends, is priceless.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a kick.
- Go gourmet: Substitute Gruyère, Fontina, or a blend of cheeses for a sophisticated twist.
- Add-ins galore: Roasted vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, peppers), cooked ham or bacon, or sautéed mushrooms would all be delicious additions.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced and satisfying dinner.
- Prep ahead: The cheese sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Simply assemble the dish and bake when ready to serve.
This mac and cheese recipe is more than just a meal; it's a reminder that even on the busiest of days, we can create simple moments of joy and connection around a comforting, delicious dish. So, the next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying weeknight dinner, give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed!
Enjoy!
