Start with the Right Pasta
The first step in making great mac and cheese is selecting the right pasta. Classic elbow macaroni works best, especially if it has ridges. These little ridges act as a perfect vessel for trapping more of that creamy sauce. Don’t forget to salt your pasta water—this is the first step in adding great flavor to your dish.
Pick the Perfect Cheeses
When it comes to mac and cheese, the right cheese makes all the difference. While you can choose any cheese, it’s best to go with sharper versions. Mild cheeses can get lost in the sauce, while sharper cheeses will stand out and give your mac and cheese that rich, flavorful punch.
Pro Tip: Always shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melt and texture. Shredding your own ensures a smoother, creamier sauce and better flavor. Using a food processor makes this process super quick and easy, giving you about 5 cups of shredded cheese, which is typically the perfect amount for this recipe.
Making the Roux: The Foundation of Your Sauce
The key to a creamy mac and cheese sauce is making the perfect roux. A roux is made from equal parts fat and flour, and in this case, butter is the star. You’ll need 6 tablespoons of butter for a rich, flavorful base.
- Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 3-4 minutes, constantly stirring. This step is crucial for removing any starchy taste and ensuring a smooth sauce.
Whisk in Milk and Creaminess
Once the roux is ready, it’s time to add the milk. Using whole milk will provide the richness you need for that indulgent creamy texture. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can substitute some or all of the milk with heavy cream. For this recipe, we use about 3.5 cups of whole milk.
Before adding the milk, stir in a small amount of mustard powder (around ¼ teaspoon) for a touch of tang that will balance the richness of the sauce.
Simmering the Sauce to Perfection
Once the milk is whisked in, bring the mixture to a simmer while occasionally stirring. This is when you’ll see the sauce start to thicken. Keep simmering for about 5 minutes to achieve the right consistency. The sauce should be smooth and creamy, not too thin.
Adding Cream Cheese for Extra Creaminess
For an extra level of creaminess, add 3 ounces of cream cheese to the sauce. The tanginess of the cream cheese will perfectly complement the richness of the other cheeses and give your mac and cheese an irresistible depth of flavor. Let it melt fully into the sauce before moving on to the next step.
Season and Add the Cheese
Season the sauce with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Now, it’s time to add the shredded cheese. Start by adding 2 cups of your shredded cheese to the sauce, stirring until it’s completely melted. The rest of the cheese will be used for layering and topping.
Cooking the Pasta and Combining Everything
While the sauce is simmering, cook your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, making sure to drain it well. If you prefer a super creamy stovetop mac and cheese, you can stop here and simply stir in a bit more cheese. However, baking your mac and cheese takes it to the next level of indulgence.
Baking the Mac and Cheese
For the perfect baked mac and cheese, begin by greasing your casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. Layer half of the mac and cheese into the dish, followed by about 1.5 cups of cheese, and then top with the rest of the mac and cheese mixture. If the cheese sauce becomes too thick during this process, you can add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Optional Crunchy Topping: If you love a crunchy topping on your mac and cheese, mix about ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs with a couple of tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sprinkle this on top of the mac and cheese before baking.
Baking Time
Bake the mac and cheese at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until it’s gooey, bubbly, and slightly golden brown on top. If you’re making it ahead of time, you can stop at this point, cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, pull it out of the fridge about an hour before so it can come to room temperature. It will take a bit longer to bake, roughly 60 minutes.
The Result: Ridiculously Delicious Mac and Cheese
Once your mac and cheese is done baking, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s indulgent, creamy, and full of gooey cheese. The crusty cheese topping adds the perfect texture contrast to the silky smooth interior. This mac and cheese is so creamy, you might just want to skip the side dishes and enjoy it on its own.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This mac and cheese is versatile. It can serve as a delicious meatless main dish, or as a side dish for holidays, gatherings, or family dinners. If you want to make it even more decadent, you can pair it with a simple salad for balance or serve it alongside a grilled protein.
Conclusion
Making the creamiest mac and cheese requires a bit of effort, but the results are worth every second. By choosing the right pasta, shredding your own cheese, and creating a rich, creamy sauce, you’ll end up with a dish that’s truly indulgent and satisfying. Whether you bake it or serve it stovetop, this mac and cheese will become your go-to recipe for a cheesy, comforting meal.
