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Mac and Cheese Recipe

Mac and Cheese Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 6 reviews

Tini’s Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish featuring elbow macaroni simmered directly in milk and a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. This stovetop recipe delivers a velvety, indulgent sauce without the need for a roux or complicated steps, enhanced by optional ingredients like sour cream, garlic powder, and mustard powder to deepen the flavor. Perfectly adaptable and quick to prepare, it can be topped with crunchy breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh parsley for an added texture contrast and visual appeal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Dairy

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)

Cheeses

  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Toppings

  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a medium saucepan, combine elbow macaroni and whole milk over medium heat. Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the milk is absorbed. Do not drain the pasta.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the butter, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and mustard powder (if using). Continue stirring until all the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  3. Add Sour Cream (Optional): Fold in sour cream to enrich the sauce and add a silky texture. Season the mac and cheese with salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
  4. Prepare Optional Topping: For a crispy, golden top, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the mac and cheese. Place under a broiler for 2–3 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crunchy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  5. Serve: Spoon the mac and cheese onto plates or bowls while hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor, if desired.

Notes

  • Using heavy cream instead of whole milk will yield an even richer and creamier mac and cheese.
  • Sour cream is optional but highly recommended for an added tang and creaminess.
  • Broiling the breadcrumbs is optional but adds a lovely crunchy texture that contrasts well with the creamy pasta.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to balance the savory cheese flavors.
  • This recipe is quick and easy to make in one pot, minimizing cleanup.
  • Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese, cheesy pasta, comfort food, quick dinner, one pot meal

Find it online: https://kitchenwithkai.com/mac-and-cheese-recipe/