Traditional Mac and Cheese

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
1 Review

Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a warm, cheesy bowl of traditional mac and cheese. This classic recipe combines creamy cheddar, a hint of nutmeg, and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a dish that's both nostalgic and satisfying.

Ingredients for Traditional Mac and Cheese

Elbow macaroni is the traditional pasta choice, perfect for holding onto that luscious cheese sauce. Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, tangy flavor that melts beautifully. All-purpose flour and unsalted butter work together to form a roux, the base of our creamy sauce. Whole milk adds richness and creaminess, while a touch of salt and black pepper balances the flavors. A dash of ground nutmeg enhances the cheese's natural flavors without being overpowering. Finally, a combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese creates a golden, savory topping.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a more flavorful sauce, try using a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella along with cheddar.
  • If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
  • Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers for a different texture.

Serving Suggestions

This traditional mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or lightly steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled sausages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Shells or penne work well too, as they hold onto the sauce nicely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything, then cover and refrigerate the dish before the final bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour for the roux.

Traditional Mac and Cheese Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it's ready and waiting once you've assembled the mac and cheese. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it's al dente. You want it to have a little bite since it will cook further in the oven. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until everything's smooth and well combined. This is your roux, the foundation of the sauce. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, being careful to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese. Mix until it's completely melted and you have a smooth, velvety cheese sauce. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece of pasta is well coated. Pour this mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the macaroni to cover it completely. This will bake into a beautiful golden crust. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it's golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Satisfies both kids and adults alike with its rich, cheesy flavor.
  • The breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch.
  • Simple to make with just a handful of pantry staples.
  • A timeless classic that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 cups whole milk
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking and stirring until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Combine cheese sauce with macaroni and mix well.
7. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
8. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle over the macaroni mixture.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!