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Step 3: Add the Milk
Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent any lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer, which should take about 4-5 minutes. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and begin adding the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese, one handful at a time. Stir until the cheese has completely melted into the sauce, creating a smooth, velvety cheese sauce.
At this point, you can also season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder for added flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Add the drained pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure every piece of macaroni is coated in that luscious, creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a small splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Optional Baking Step (For Extra Creaminess)
If you want a crispy, golden top, transfer the cheesy mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy finish, and then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
If you prefer your mac and cheese creamy without the crunchy topping, feel free to skip the baking step and serve it directly from the stove!
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once your mac and cheese is ready, serve it hot! For an extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and a little extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese
- Use Full-Fat Cheese: For the creamiest and richest mac and cheese, use full-fat cheeses like sharp cheddar and mozzarella. Low-fat or reduced-fat cheeses often don’t melt as well and can result in a less creamy texture.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that can affect the meltability of the cheese. Shred your cheese fresh for the best results.
- Add a Flavor Boost: Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the cheese sauce. You can also stir in cooked bacon or caramelized onions for an extra flavor punch.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese in advance by making the cheese sauce and cooking the pasta. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine them and heat through. You can even bake it in the oven if you like the crispy top.
- Customize It: Get creative with your add-ins. Try adding roasted vegetables, crispy breadcrumbs, or even a handful of spinach to make it your own!
Why You’ll Love Good Ole Fashioned Mac and Cheese
- Classic Comfort: This mac and cheese recipe captures the essence of classic comfort food—cheesy, warm, and filling. It’s a dish that never fails to satisfy.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, having a cozy night in, or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this mac and cheese fits the bill.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can make an incredibly flavorful dish that’s both easy and satisfying.
- Kid-Friendly: It’s hard to find a child who doesn’t love mac and cheese. This dish is perfect for picky eaters, and you can easily sneak in extra veggies if needed.
Final Thoughts
Good Ole Fashioned Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that has stood the test of time. With its creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and optional crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish will warm you from the inside out. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home.
So, the next time you’re craving a comforting, cheesy meal, whip up a batch of this classic mac and cheese. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to please everyone around the table. Enjoy!
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