Easy Peasy Cheesy: the Ultimate Baked Mac & Cheese

Recipe Introduction: Easy Peasy Cheesy Baked Mac & Cheese

Fancy a bit of comfort food? do you love cheesy goodness? this baked mac and cheese recipe is proper lush.

Honestly, it's the best mac and cheese recipe i've ever made. and it is so easy.

Overview: From Across the Pond to Your Plate

This dish is basically happiness in a casserole. it’s comfort food mac and cheese at its finest! originating in the u.

S., it has become a staple. think family dinners. this recipe is easy. it takes about 45 minutes. it serves 6 people.

Why This Recipe is Ace

One of the best things? it’s proper satisfying. cheese is good for the soul, innit? it's perfect for a weeknight mac and cheese dinner when you need something quick.

Also a winner if you are after that creamy baked mac and cheese texture. what makes this classic baked mac and cheese recipe special is the easy cheese sauce.

No faffing about here! i love adding mustard, it give it that edge.

Grab Your Gear: Ingredients Incoming

Right, let's get to the good stuff. you'll need macaroni, butter, flour, milk, cheddar, and maybe some monterey jack for that extra gooeyness.

Got it? good. let's get cooking this homemade mac and cheese casserole

Tips and Tricks: Baked Mac & Cheese Secrets

Don't overcook the pasta! Al dente is key. Use good cheese. You are only worth that. Melting the cheese off the heat prevents the cheese sauce from splitting.

The Finale: Serving up Smiles

Serve this mac and cheese casserole with a side salad or roasted veg. You will have a balanced meal. A pint of lager also goes down a treat! Enjoy!

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show on the Road!

Right, so you wanna make the best mac and cheese recipe ever? ace! here's the lowdown on what you'll need.

I will provide all the details to make the classic baked mac and cheese recipe . don't worry, nothing too fancy we're going for easy peasy.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight mac and cheese dinner

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

• Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (454g) . Get good quality pasta; it makes a difference! We need the best cheesy mac and cheese .
• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (113g or 1 stick) . Go for a decent brand.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup (60g) . Plain and simple.
• Whole Milk: 3 cups (710ml) . Full fat is the way to go for creamy goodness.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Adds a nice tang.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (3g) plus 1 tablespoon (15ml) for the pasta water.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1g) . Freshly ground is best.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups (450g) , shredded. Homemade mac and cheese casserole needs good cheese.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: 1 cup (115g) , shredded (optional). For extra gooeyness!
• Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50g) (optional). For that lovely crunch.
• Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons (28g) (optional). For the breadcrumb topping.

I once tried using pre-shredded cheese, and it just didn’t melt properly. learn from my mistakes, eh? always shred your own! it takes a few more minutes, but honestly, the difference is huge.

You want that proper cheesy pull. the final result will give you the best mac and cheese recipe .

Seasoning Notes: Adding a Bit of Zing

We’re talking comfort food mac and cheese , so keep it simple!

• Dijon mustard is key. It just elevates the cheese sauce.
• A pinch of nutmeg (if you have it) is magic.
• Don't skip the salt! It brings out all the flavours.

If you're feeling adventurous, chuck in a bit of smoked paprika. Just a little though, 1/4 teaspoon (1g) , unless you want it overpowering!

Equipment Needed: Nothing Too Fussy

• Large pot: For cooking the pasta.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Large saucepan: For the cheese sauce.
• Whisk: Essential for a smooth sauce.
• 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish: To bake the mac and cheese casserole .

Don’t have a whisk? a fork will do in a pinch. the important thing is to keep stirring to avoid lumps.

And if you're short on baking dishes, use two smaller ones. simples! easy baked mac and cheese recipe is achievable with these tools.

Let's Get Baking: The Easiest Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe Ever!

Honestly, who doesn't love a good comfort food mac and cheese ? i'm talking proper, classic baked mac and cheese recipe .

None of that fancy pants stuff, just good, honest cheesy goodness. i'm going to share my easy baked mac and cheese recipe .

Here's how we make it. it is a weeknight winner, that i can guarantee.

Prep Like a Pro: Essential Steps Before You Start

First things first, we need our mise en place . that’s just a fancy way of saying get everything ready. get your ingredients measured.

This is key for keeping things easy peasy. having all the ingredients ready and prepped means, there will be less chance of burning the roux! i’m telling you now, that roux can catch you out.

Let's get Cracking: Baking Our Cheesy Masterpiece

1. Boil the pasta: Cook 1 pound of elbow macaroni until al dente. That's firm to the bite, yeah? Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Then drain well.
2. Make the Roux: Melt 1/2 cup butter. Whisk in 1/2 cup flour, making sure to stir it for 1 minute . This cooks out the flour taste.
3. Add the milk : Slowly whisk in 3 cups of whole milk. Keep whisking until it thickens! This should take a few minutes.
4. Season & Cheese: Take it off the heat! Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Add 4 cups cheddar cheese and 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (optional). Then, stir until melted and smooth.
5. Combine, Top & Bake: Mix the pasta and cheese sauce together. Pour into a baking dish and top with 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional). Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes .

Pro Tips for Mac & Cheese Perfection

Don't overcook the pasta. nobody likes mushy mac. always grate your own cheese. pre-shredded cheese has cellulose that stops it from melting well.

Melt your cheese off of the heat to ensure a super creamy texture. the best cheesy mac and cheese is when it is home-made.

Recipe Notes

Alright, so you're about to embark on this baked mac and cheese recipe journey? ace! here are a few extra bits to make sure yours is a proper showstopper.

Honestly, it's all about the little things, innit?

Serving Like a Pro

Plating and presentation ideas: forget beige! a sprinkle of fresh parsley will add a pop of color. you could also try grilling some cherry tomatoes.

Presentation is key. also, mac and cheese casserole can be served in individual ramekins. it’s fancy ish and stops people from arguing over who gets the biggest portion.

Complementary sides or beverages: side salads are always a winner, especially if it's got a bit of zing. or a nice coleslaw.

You know? for drinks, a crisp white wine works well. lager beer always complements comfort food mac and cheese.

Storing That Cheesy Goodness

Refrigeration Guidelines: Pop any leftovers into an airtight container. They'll be happy in the fridge for like, 3-4 days. Just give it a sniff before you tuck in, yeah?

Freezing options (if applicable): freezing is a go! let the creamy baked mac and cheese cool completely. then, portion it out, wrap it well, and freeze.

Should be good for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions: Oven or microwave. Both work fine. If microwaving, add a splash of milk to keep it from drying out. Oven is ideal for that crispy top we all love!

Variations, Because Why Not?

Dietary Adaptations: Need a gluten-free version? No worries, use gluten-free pasta. The best mac and cheese recipe can be adapted easily! Sub the plain flour for a gluten-free blend. Sorted.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: Chuck in some roasted butternut squash in autumn. Or peas and asparagus in spring. Get creative with the homemade mac and cheese casserole . See what's in season, yeah?

Nutrition Nitty Gritty

Simplified Nutrition Information: Okay, so the best cheesy mac and cheese isn't a health food. 1 serving has around 550 calories. Remember that this is an approximate only.

Key Health Benefits: Cheese has calcium! Pasta has carbs for energy! Honestly, it's food for the soul. It's classic baked mac and cheese recipe , so a little bit is alright, yeah?

Right then, go forth and bake! this easy baked mac and cheese recipe is bound to be a winner, even if you’re a bit of a beginner in the kitchen.

Now you know the inside scoop. now you're set to create the weeknight mac and cheese dinner of dreams. enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I stop my baked mac and cheese recipe from being dry? Nobody wants a desert dry mac!

Nobody wants dry mac and cheese! To keep your baked mac and cheese recipe moist, make sure your cheese sauce is nice and creamy before baking. Adding a little extra milk to the sauce can help.

Also, don't overbake it pull it out of the oven as soon as it's golden brown and bubbly, not when it's starting to look crusty.

Can I prepare baked mac and cheese ahead of time? I'm busier than a bee in a honey pot!

Absolutely! You can assemble the baked mac and cheese in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.

You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it's starting cold.

What's the best cheese to use for baked mac and cheese? I'm looking for that proper cheesy pull!

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice for a reason it provides a great flavor base. However, don't be afraid to experiment! Monterey Jack adds a lovely gooeyness, Gruyere brings a nutty depth, and a touch of Parmesan adds a salty tang. A blend of cheeses will give you the best of all worlds!

Can I freeze baked mac and cheese? I'm batch cooking like a boss!

You sure can! Let the baked mac and cheese cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk to rehydrate it a bit.

How do I make my baked mac and cheese recipe extra special? Time to channel my inner culinary god/goddess.

Elevate your mac and cheese by adding some exciting mix-ins! Crispy bacon bits, roasted vegetables (like broccoli or butternut squash), or a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary can take it to the next level. For a sophisticated twist, try adding some truffle oil or a pinch of smoked paprika.

It's all about making it your own!

What can I do to make sure my panko topping gets nice and golden brown? I want a proper crunch!

Make sure to toss the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling them over the mac and cheese. The butter helps them crisp up and turn golden brown. For an extra boost of flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or grated Parmesan cheese to the panko mixture.

You can also broil the mac and cheese for the last minute or two of baking, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!