Tini's Mac and Cheese: A Delicious Recipe!
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Tini's Mac and Cheese! This creamy, cheesy recipe combines a perfect blend of cheeses, a velvety smooth sauce, and your favorite pasta shape for a dish that will delight the whole family. From stovetop to baked, customize Tini's recipe to create your own mac and cheese masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
- 6 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk whole milk or 2% recommended
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg optional, but highly recommended
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder optional
- 4 cups shredded cheese see "Tini's Cheese Blend" below
- ½ cup breadcrumbs optional, for topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter optional, for topping
Tini's Cheese Blend:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and golden.
- Whisk in the Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer the Sauce: Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
- Add the Seasonings: Stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, and garlic powder (if using).
- Melt the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
- Bake (Optional): Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If desired, top with breadcrumbs and drizzle with melted butter. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, use good quality cheese and shred it yourself.
- Don't overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends, spices, and toppings.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
