Easy Macaroni Cheese Recipe (Also Bake Version)

Ingredients

For the Macaroni:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (substitute: penne, shell pasta)

• 4 cups water (for boiling)

• 1 tsp salt

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter (substitute: olive oil for a lighter version)

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (substitute: cornstarch for a gluten-free version)

• 2 cups milk (substitute: plant-based milk for dairy-free)

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated (substitute: mozzarella, gouda, or a mix)

• ½ cup parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp mustard powder (optional, adds depth)

Optional Toppings:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy top)

• 1 tbsp butter (for toasting breadcrumbs)

Before We Start

• Use freshly grated cheese – Melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

• Cook pasta al dente – Slightly firm, so it doesn’t become mushy.

• Stir sauce continuously – Prevents lumps in the cheese sauce.

• Don’t overheat cheese – Prevents a grainy texture.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Step 1: Take a deep pot to boil macaroni. Add 4 cups of water, salt, and black pepper to taste. Add macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes.
Step 2: When it’s done, drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

Step 3: Take a pan, add butter, and melt it over medium flame. Add flour and whisk into it for a minute until smooth consistency.
Step 4: Continue whisking and gradually add milk to prevent lumps.
Step 5: Let it thicken for 2-3 minutes on low heat. Add cheddar and parmesan, stirring until it melts. Season with salt, black pepper, and mustard powder for flavor.

Combine & Done

Step 6: Mix the cooked, drained macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir well until fully coated.

Baked Version (Optional Step)

Step 7: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 8: In a baking dish, transfer the drained, cooked macaroni. Add cheddar, parmesan, and breadcrumbs along with melted butter. Sprinkle oregano over the top.
Step 9: Bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

It’s done! It’s up to you whether to go for the baked version or the cheese sauce preparation—both are macaroni cheese dishes.

Both methods keep their own taste. Make sure to enjoy every bite!

Serve

Serve in a ceramic bowl (only because it keeps warm for long). Use placemats, garnish bowls with fresh parsley, and serve along with fresh orange juice.

What Goes with Macaroni Cheese

As important as the taste is, the impression matters too!

• Garlic bread – Buttery and crispy.

• Crispy chicken tenders

• Caesar salad

• Tomato soup

Drinks That Will Pair

• Apple cider (hot or cold)

• Sparkling water with lemon or lime

• Milkshake (vanilla or chocolate)

Recipes Related to Macaroni Cheese

Macaroni Cheese Sauce?

In a pan, melt the butter, then add milk and whisk it. Add cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan). Stir until it melts. Add seasoning like salt, black pepper, and mustard powder. Done with sauce.

Macaroni Cheese in a Slow Cooker?

Add uncooked macaroni, milk, shredded cheese, butter, and seasonings into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring slowly and gently.

Macaroni Cheese Without Flour?

Skip the flour by using heavy cream instead of a roux (mixture of flour and fat—usually butter, oil, or lard). Simply melt cheese in warm milk and mix with your boiled macaroni.

How to Make Macaroni More Cheesy?

Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Adding a little extra milk or heavy cream will make it creamier and cheesier.

Conclusion

Take a deep pot, add 4 cups of water to boil. Add macaroni, salt, and black pepper to taste. Cook for 7-8 minutes. When done, drain and place aside.

Take a pan, add butter, and melt it over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to make a smooth consistency for a minute. Then, while whisking or stirring, slowly add milk to avoid lumps. Let it thicken for 2-3 minutes on low heat. Add cheddar and parmesan, stir until it melts. Add salt, black pepper, and mustard powder. Mix well.

Then, add the boiled, drained macaroni into it and mix until well combined. Done!

(Optional: If you made the cheese sauce in the pan, then you’re already done! But if you want the baked version, follow this method.)

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). In a baking dish, add macaroni and cheese, cheddar, parmesan, and breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle oregano on top. Bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

It's done! Both methods are flavorful and delicious!

For More Recipes, Check Out:

• Recipe of Seekh Kebab

• Chicken Manchurian at Home

• Traditional Chicken/Beef Biryani Recipe

• Tasty Churros Recipe Ready

• Cook with Ease: Currywurst

• Homemade Ceviche

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