Mac and cheese, a classic dish loved by people of all ages, is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that can be traced back to the 14th century. Originating in Italy, it has since become a staple in many cuisines worldwide. Over time, countless variations of mac and cheese have emerged, each with its unique flavors and textures. This article presents a collection of three delectable mac and cheese recipes that cater to different preferences and dietary restrictions.
The first recipe, "Classic Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese," stays true to the traditional preparation, using a combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses to create a rich and gooey sauce. Elbow macaroni is cooked al dente and tossed in the creamy cheese sauce, resulting in a comforting and nostalgic dish. The second recipe, "Lightened-Up Mac and Cheese," offers a healthier twist on the classic. It uses a blend of low-fat milk and Greek yogurt to create a lighter sauce, while still delivering a satisfying cheesy experience. Whole wheat macaroni provides a boost of fiber and nutrients, making this recipe a healthier choice for health-conscious individuals.
The third recipe, "Vegan Mac and Cheese," caters to those with vegan dietary preferences. It uses a combination of plant-based ingredients to create a creamy and flavorful sauce. Cashews, nutritional yeast, and almond milk come together to form a rich and cheesy base, while gluten-free pasta ensures that this recipe is accessible to those with gluten sensitivities. Whichever recipe you choose, you're sure to enjoy the comfort and satisfaction that comes with a warm and cheesy bowl of mac and cheese.
OLD FASHIONED MAC AND CHEESE
This is a classic recipe for macaroni and cheese. The kids will love this!
Provided by JAYDE175
Categories Main Dish Recipes Pasta Macaroni and Cheese Recipes Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipes
Time 1h5m
Yield 7
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Prepare the elbow macaroni according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium high heat. Stir in the flour until a cream colored paste forms. Then pour in the milk and stir constantly until this comes to a hard boil, then stir for 1 more minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
- When the macaroni is cooked, spread 1/2 of it into the bottom of a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Then layer 1/2 of the grated onion, 1/2 of the salt and pepper and 1/2 of each of the cheeses. Repeat this one more time: macaroni, onion, salt and pepper and cheeses, and then pour the reserved white sauce over all. Top off with small pats of butter to taste.
- Cover and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 401 calories, Carbohydrate 29.1 g, Cholesterol 70 mg, Fat 23.3 g, Fiber 1.1 g, Protein 18.5 g, SaturatedFat 14.6 g, Sodium 450.2 mg, Sugar 4.6 g
OLD FASHIONED MAC AND CHEESE
This is an old recipe from Grandma Carr. She got surplus cheese in large blocks and used it to make this dish.
Provided by Kathie Carr
Categories Pasta
Time 45m
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook and drain macaroni. Heat milk, eggs, butter, and cheese in a small saucepan until cheese is melted. Stir together macaroni, cheese mixture and salt and pepper. Pour into a buttered casserole and bake for 20-30 minutes until just beginning to brown.
- 2. Optional: Grandma often added some finely crushed soda crackers on top of casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking to give the dish a little crunch.
Tips:
- For a creamy and smooth mac and cheese, use a good quality cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan.
- Cook the macaroni according to the package directions, but drain it a minute or two before it's fully cooked. This will help prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Make sure the cheese sauce is thick and bubbly before adding the macaroni. If it's too thin, it will make the mac and cheese runny.
- Season the mac and cheese to taste with salt, pepper, and other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle some bread crumbs or crushed crackers on top of the mac and cheese before baking.
- Mac and cheese is best served hot out of the oven, but it can also be made ahead of time and reheated.
Conclusion:
Old-fashioned mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is easy to make and loved by people of all ages. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender macaroni, and crispy topping, it's the perfect dish for a family meal or a potluck. So next time you're looking for a simple and satisfying dish, give this old-fashioned mac and cheese recipe a try.
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