Mac and cheese, a classic dish enjoyed by people of all ages, is a versatile culinary creation that offers a comforting and delicious meal. Originating in the 14th century, this dish has evolved over time, with variations and adaptations seen across different cultures. From the classic American macaroni and cheese, known for its gooey cheese and crispy breadcrumb topping, to the French gratin de macaroni, featuring a creamy bechamel sauce and a golden crust, mac and cheese continues to captivate taste buds worldwide.
This article presents a collection of delectable mac and cheese recipes that cater to various dietary preferences and culinary desires. Whether you're a cheese enthusiast seeking a rich and indulgent experience or a health-conscious individual looking for a lighter alternative, these recipes have something for everyone. From the traditional stovetop method to the convenience of a slow cooker or the ease of an instant pot, these recipes provide step-by-step instructions to guide you in creating this timeless dish. So, prepare to embark on a cheesy adventure as we explore the diverse world of mac and cheese, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful dining experience.
CREAMY MACARONI & CHEESE - FOR TWO OR ONE
I shouldn't be surprised that there are more than 600 recipes for this dish. After reading many, many of them, I have come to the conclusion that this one has it's place here at Zaar. The sauce is smooth and creamy, with little pockets of melted cheese throughout. I hope you like this as much as I do. Cooking time includes the making of the sauce and baking.
Provided by Diana 2
Categories One Dish Meal
Time 40m
Yield 2 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Preheat oven at 350°F.
- Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al-dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the milk in the microwave, on high for 1-1/2 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter. Add salt, pepper and chopped onion. Sauté on medium heat, until the onion is transparent and soft, but not brown.
- Sprinkle the flour on top, and allow the butter to absorb some of it before stirring.
- Add the hot milk in 3 additions, stirring constantly. The mixture will get thick very quickly.
- After the final addition of milk, continue heating the mixture, on medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and bubbly.
- *Remove from heat* and stir in the grated cheese, chives and red pepper flakes.
- Add the drained pasta and mix well.
- Fold in the cubed cheese.
- Pour into two greased onion soup bowls.
- Bake for 20 - 25 minutes.
- Allow to cool a bit before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 701.2, Fat 41.8, SaturatedFat 26.1, Cholesterol 126.7, Sodium 924.2, Carbohydrate 51.3, Fiber 2.5, Sugar 3.4, Protein 30.2
MAC AND CHEESE II
This recipe is so simple to make! It can be a side dish with meatloaf and stewed tomatoes or hold it's own. Enough to make 4 side dishes or 2 main dishes.
Provided by KROB919
Categories Main Dish Recipes Pasta Macaroni and Cheese Recipes Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipes
Time 1h5m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- In a large pot with boiling salted water cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain.
- In a medium saucepan, over medium heat melt butter or margarine. Whisk flour and stir vigorously. Add milk and cook until thick and bubbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add cheeses and stir until completely melted.
- In a large bowl mix together the drained pasta and cheese sauce mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
- Pour into a greased 2 quart casserole dish. Bake in a preheated 350 degree F (175 degrees C) oven for 30 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 649.6 calories, Carbohydrate 58.6 g, Cholesterol 91 mg, Fat 32.3 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 30.4 g, SaturatedFat 20 g, Sodium 817.6 mg, Sugar 7.4 g
BAKED MACARONI & CHEESE II
Not the usual macaroni and cheese. This recipe includes stewed tomatoes and cream of cheddar soup. My DH is not a lover of mac&cheese dinners but he really likes this recipe because of the added tomatoes. I got this from Allrecipes posted by Renee
Provided by Cher Jewhurst
Categories < 60 Mins
Time 1h
Yield 7 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain and reserve.
- In a large saucepan over low heat, warm soup and add milk; stir. Add 1/4 of cheese to soup and remove mixture from heat when cheese is melted.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Add macaroni and tomatoes to soup; stir and pour into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover with bread crumbs and remaining cheese.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 40 minutes or until the cheese is a golden brown; serve.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 584.4, Fat 25.3, SaturatedFat 15.5, Cholesterol 76.2, Sodium 852, Carbohydrate 61.8, Fiber 3.2, Sugar 4.7, Protein 27.1
MACARONI AND CHEESE FOR TWO
This is one of those dishes that our family calls "a Mama recipe." My mother rarely consulted a cookbook, so when asked for a recipe, she could only estimate. I've worked out the ingredients to make it for two, but it can easily be doubled. It's simply a good, wholesome dish most folks seem to enjoy. -Betty Allen, East Point, Georgia
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Side Dishes
Time 40m
Yield 2 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°. In a medium bowl, combine macaroni, cheese, milk, egg and salt; mix well. Pour into a greased 1-qt. shallow baking dish; dot with butter. Bake, uncovered, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 30-35 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 447 calories, Fat 27g fat (18g saturated fat), Cholesterol 190mg cholesterol, Sodium 1050mg sodium, Carbohydrate 30g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 21g protein.
Tips:
- For a creamy and flavorful macaroni and cheese, use a high-quality cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, Gruyère, or Gouda.
- Use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor. For example, you could use a blend of cheddar and Gruyère, or cheddar and Parmesan.
- Use evaporated milk or heavy cream instead of regular milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Add a little bit of mustard powder, cayenne pepper, or garlic powder to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Cook the macaroni until it is al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. This will prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Don't overcook the macaroni and cheese. It should be cooked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, but the macaroni should still be slightly firm.
- Serve the macaroni and cheese with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for garnish.
Conclusion:
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your own taste. Whether you like it cheesy, creamy, or spicy, there is a macaroni and cheese recipe out there for you. So next time you are looking for a quick and easy meal, give one of these macaroni and cheese recipes a try. You won't be disappointed!
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