Creamiest Macaroni And Cheese
When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a bowl of creamy, dreamy mac and cheese. My version of Creamiest Macaroni and Cheese is inspired by a delightful culinary experience I had in Seattle with Beecher’s famous dish. While I couldn’t get my hands on the exact ingredients back home, I discovered that with a little creativity, you can craft a mac and cheese that rivals the original!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is all about indulgence. With a luscious, creamy cheese sauce and a perfect blend of flavors, it’s hard not to fall in love. The secret lies in using lots of cheese and a variety of types to create depth and richness. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply craving something comforting, this mac and cheese is sure to please everyone.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Deep saucepan
- Whisk
- Large bowl
- 3 qt. baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) shell pasta
- 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Lightly grease a large 3 qt. baking dish and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheeses and set aside.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, but take it off the heat one minute before it’s fully done. Drain the pasta and place it in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the pasta with olive oil and stir to coat. Let it cool while you prepare the cheese sauce.
- Melt the butter in a deep saucepan.
- Whisk in the flour over medium heat and continue whisking for about 1 minute until it’s bubbly and golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Keep whisking until bubbles appear on the surface, then continue for another 2 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Add two cups of shredded cheese to the sauce and whisk until smooth. Add another two cups and continue whisking until creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add more milk until you reach the desired consistency.
- Stir in the cooled pasta until it’s fully coated with the cheese sauce.
- Pour half of the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheese, then add the rest of the mac and cheese.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
Make sure to undercook the pasta slightly before baking, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Also, feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to find your perfect flavor blend.
Additional Tips or Variations
You can substitute the shell pasta with your favorite type of pasta. For a crispy topping, consider sprinkling breadcrumbs over the top before baking.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is rich and creamy, which means it’s high in calories and fat. However, it’s a perfect treat for special occasions or when you need a comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake until bubbly and golden.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze portions of the baked mac and cheese. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the joy of digging into a bowl of homemade mac and cheese. Try this Creamiest Macaroni and Cheese recipe and let your taste buds revel in the deliciousness. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and experiences in the comments below!
