Frederic Melton
Macaroni and cheese is a comforting, delicious, and versatile dish that can be made in a variety of ways. The base ingredients are simple: pasta, cheese, and a creamy sauce. The type of pasta can vary, from elbow macaroni to corkscrew shapes, and the cheese can be anything from cheddar to gouda, gruyere, or mozzarella. The sauce can be made with a roux, bechamel, or simply melted cheese, and the dish can be baked with a variety of toppings, such as breadcrumbs, potato chips, or additional cheese. While the basic recipe is simple, there are endless variations and combinations of ingredients to explore, making macaroni and cheese a fun and creative dish to prepare.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of dish | Comfort food, meal in itself |
| Main ingredients | Elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, cheese |
| Cheese options | Cheddar, Gruyère, Fontina |
| Other ingredients | Paprika, egg, dry mustard |
| Preparation method | Boil macaroni, make cheese sauce, bake in oven |
| Baking temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Baking time | 10 minutes or until cheese melts and turns golden-brown |
| Serving size | 6-10 servings |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right pasta
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food, and while there are countless variations, baked macaroni and cheese is considered by many to be the best.
The type of pasta you choose for your mac and cheese can make a big difference in the final dish. The most popular choice is elbow macaroni, which is a short, curved tube-shaped pasta. This shape is ideal for mac and cheese because the tubes hold the creamy cheese sauce, resulting in a bite that's packed with flavour. Other short pasta shapes, such as shells or penne, can also work well. They have a similar effect of trapping the sauce, creating a balanced blend of pasta and cheese in each bite.
It is important to avoid overcooking the pasta. It should be boiled until it is still quite firm, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Most recipes recommend boiling the pasta for about 2 minutes less than the package instructions for al dente. This ensures that the pasta doesn't become mushy and unpleasant.
The amount of pasta used in the dish can also vary depending on personal preference. A typical ratio is 1 pound of dried elbow macaroni for a 9x13-inch baking dish, resulting in about 6 to 10 servings. However, you can adjust the amount of pasta to your liking, keeping in mind that more pasta may require a larger baking dish or adjustments to the sauce quantity.
In summary, choosing the right pasta for mac and cheese involves selecting a shape that holds the sauce well, such as elbow macaroni or other short pasta shapes. Remember to undercook the pasta slightly to avoid overcooking during baking, and adjust the amount of pasta to suit your desired serving size and dish size.
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Preparing the sauce
At this point, some recipes suggest adding an egg to the sauce, which makes it smooth, velvety, and rich. Additionally, dry mustard can be added for a tangy bite, balancing the richness of the sauce. It is recommended to start with a small amount and adjust according to taste preferences.
Once the sauce has thickened, it is removed from the heat, and shredded cheese is whisked in. It is essential to use freshly grated cheese, as pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly due to additives. The cheese is added in small batches, stirred until melted, and more is added gradually until it is fully incorporated.
For a more indulgent sauce, melting cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina can be used in addition to the classic cheddar cheese. This combination of butter, flour, milk, and cheese creates a creamy, indulgent sauce that is the signature of a delicious macaroni and cheese dish.
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Shredding the cheese
When grating the cheese, use the large holes of a box grater to create shreds that will melt easily and evenly. For a one-pound box of dried elbow macaroni, you will need about 1 1/2 pounds of medium cheddar cheese, which should yield around six cups of grated cheese. Reserve one cup of the grated cheese for sprinkling on top of the macaroni before baking.
To ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy, add the shredded cheese to the sauce a handful at a time, stirring continuously until it melts before adding more. This prevents the sauce from becoming grainy. Additionally, keep the burner on low heat as high temperatures can cause the cream sauce to separate and become lumpy.
Using whole milk or a combination of whole milk and half-and-half will also contribute to a rich and creamy sauce. Avoid using low-fat milk, skim milk, or 2% milk as they will not provide the desired texture and flavour. For an even smoother and richer sauce, consider adding an egg to the mixture.
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Baking the dish
Baking your macaroni and cheese is a simple process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the best results. Firstly, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, you can prepare your baking dish. For a classic mac and cheese, a 9x13-inch baking dish is a good size. Coat the dish generously with butter to ensure your macaroni and cheese doesn't stick.
Next, you'll want to boil your macaroni. For baked macaroni and cheese, it's important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Boil your chosen pasta for 2 minutes less than the package instructions advise, testing after 5 minutes to ensure it still has a good bite. Drain the pasta once it's al dente, and set it aside.
Now, it's time to make the cheese sauce. Start by melting butter in a pot over medium heat. The amount of butter you'll need depends on your recipe, but a good rule of thumb is around 6 tablespoons of butter for a pound of pasta. Once melted, add an equal amount of flour and stir until the mixture turns golden and smells toasted. This step is crucial, as it creates a roux, which thickens your sauce and adds flavour.
Once your roux is ready, slowly whisk in milk or a combination of milk and half-and-half. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Remove the sauce from the heat and add your shredded cheese. A classic choice is cheddar, but you can also use melting cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina. Keep in mind that freshly grated cheese will melt smoother than pre-shredded cheese. Continue stirring until all the cheese has melted, creating a creamy, dreamy sauce.
Finally, it's time to assemble and bake your macaroni and cheese. Layer half of the cooked macaroni into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese over the pasta, then top with the remaining macaroni. Finish with an extra layer of cheese to ensure a gooey, golden crust. You can also sprinkle paprika over the top for added colour and flavour.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling around the edges, and golden-brown in spots. Your homemade macaroni and cheese is now ready to be devoured!
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Topping options
Macaroni and cheese is a versatile dish that can be customised with a variety of toppings to elevate the classic comfort food. Here are some topping options to consider:
Crunchy Toppings
For a textural contrast to the creamy macaroni and cheese, consider adding a crunchy topping. Potato chips, especially kettle chips, can add a crunchy bite. Alternatively, crush up some cheese sticks or crisps, such as cheddar or Asiago, for a flavourful crunch. For an Italian twist, use Parmesan and garlic crisps, or add some spice with Sriracha-flavoured ones. If you're feeling adventurous, "crab" potato chips tossed with Chesapeake Bay Crab Seasoning can add a unique flavour to a seafood mac and cheese.
Meat Toppings
Meat lovers can indulge in a variety of meat toppings. Crispy fried bacon bits, when cooked separately and then added to the macaroni and cheese, provide a tasty contrast in texture and flavour. BBQ meatballs, pulled pork, and pulled chicken are also excellent options to elevate your dish.
Spicy Toppings
Add a kick to your macaroni and cheese with some spicy toppings. Jalapeños, either crispy fried or pickled, can bring a mild heat to the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing it with sour kimchi, pan-fried until slightly browned, for an unexpected flavour combination.
Cheesy Toppings
For the ultimate cheese lovers, simply adding more cheese on top of your macaroni and cheese can take it to the next level. A mix of shredded mozzarella and Gruyere can add a creamy, stringy texture. Don't be afraid to sprinkle on some extra cheddar or fontina for an extra cheesy bite.
Other Toppings
There are endless possibilities when it comes to macaroni and cheese toppings. Some unique options include sauerkraut, which can provide a surprising flavour contrast. You can also try crispy fried onions, sliced red onions, or shallots mixed with melted butter for a sweet and savoury bite. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as paprika, black pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a variety of cheeses for macaroni and cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, gouda, smoked gouda, gruyere, or Monterey Jack. Feel free to get creative with your cheese selection and choose your favorites!
Yes, making a roux is a common step in preparing macaroni and cheese. To make a roux, mix flour and butter over heat, and then add milk or cream to create a béchamel sauce. This forms the base for your cheese sauce.
It is recommended to par-cook or partially cook the pasta before adding it to the baking dish. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming overcooked and mushy. Boil the pasta for a shorter time than usual, around 4 to 5 minutes, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Common toppings for macaroni and cheese include shredded cheese, buttered breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, or a combination of these. You can also get creative and experiment with different toppings, such as bacon or parmesan.
