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### The Key Ingredients in Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese
Making mac and cheese from scratch may seem intimidating to some, but the truth is, it’s a relatively simple dish with a few key ingredients. The beauty of traditional mac and cheese lies in its simplicity. The goal is to elevate the ingredients with flavor, making the creamy sauce and tender pasta the stars of the show.
#### 1. **Macaroni Pasta**
The star ingredient of mac and cheese is, of course, the pasta. While elbow macaroni is the most traditional and widely used pasta shape, there are no hard rules. You can use other small pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or even fusilli. The important thing is to choose a pasta shape that will hold the cheese sauce well, ensuring that each bite is as cheesy and creamy as possible.
#### 2. **Cheese**
The cheese is the heart of the mac and cheese. The key is to use good-quality cheese that will melt well and provide that rich, gooey texture we all love. The two most commonly used cheeses in good ole-fashioned mac and cheese are **cheddar** and **Monterey Jack**, though some recipes may also call for a combination of cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or even a little bit of Parmesan for a sharper flavor. The cheddar should be sharp or extra sharp for the best flavor profile.
**Note:** Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the cheese sauce.
#### 3. **Butter**
Butter serves as the base for the roux, which is essential for thickening the cheese sauce. It adds richness to the dish and contributes to the silky, smooth texture of the sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the dish and helps to avoid making it too salty.
#### 4. **Flour**
Flour is combined with the butter to create a roux. This mixture helps to thicken the cheese sauce, giving it a velvety consistency. It’s important to cook the roux for a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste, but be careful not to let it brown.
#### 5. **Milk (or Heavy Cream)**
Milk is the liquid base for the sauce. Whole milk works best, as it provides enough fat to make the sauce creamy without being too rich. Some people prefer to use a combination of milk and heavy cream for an extra luxurious and creamy result. This will increase the richness and texture, making the dish feel more indulgent.
#### 6. **Seasonings**
A traditional mac and cheese recipe relies on a handful of seasonings to enhance the flavor. Common seasonings include **salt**, **black pepper**, **mustard powder**, and **paprika**. Mustard powder adds a subtle tanginess that complements the richness of the cheese, while paprika provides a bit of smokiness and color. Some people also add a dash of cayenne pepper or garlic powder for extra kick.
#### 7. **Breadcrumbs (Optional)**
For the baked version of mac and cheese, a layer of crispy breadcrumbs on top is a must. The breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy, cheesy filling. Panko breadcrumbs work best for a light, crispy texture, but any type of breadcrumbs will do. Sometimes, the breadcrumbs are seasoned with butter and a little bit of cheese to enhance the flavor.
### How to Make Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making a homemade mac and cheese from scratch doesn’t require much time, but it does require a little attention to detail. Here’s a simple, foolproof recipe for the perfect, creamy, and cheesy mac and cheese.
#### Ingredients:
– 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your choice of pasta)
– 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (extra sharp for more flavor)
– 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 cups whole milk (or a combination of milk and heavy cream for extra richness)
– 1 tsp mustard powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for smokiness)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
– 2 tbsp butter (for the breadcrumb topping)
#### Instructions:
**Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
Start by cooking the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook once it’s combined with the cheese sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
**Step 2: Make the Roux**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour, whisking continuously to combine. Cook the flour-butter mixture (roux) for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Be careful not to let the roux brown.
**Step 3: Add the Milk**
Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk the mixture. This will help prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture begins to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the sauce is thickened, reduce the heat to low.
**Step 4: Add the Cheese**
Once the sauce has thickened, gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.
**Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce**
Add the drained, cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
**Step 6: Optional: Bake the Mac and Cheese**
If you prefer baked mac and cheese, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter and toss the breadcrumbs in the butter to coat them. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. If you want an even crispier topping, broil the mac and cheese for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
**Step 7: Serve and Enjoy**
Once your mac and cheese is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Serve warm with additional seasonings or toppings, such as a dash of hot sauce or extra cheese.
### Tips for Perfect Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese
1. **Don’t Overcook the Pasta**: To prevent mushy mac and cheese, always cook your pasta al dente. This ensures that the pasta retains its texture and doesn’t become too soft once combined with the cheese sauce.
2. **Use Freshly Shredded Cheese**: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best results, shred your cheese fresh from the block.
3. **Adjust the Creaminess**: If you prefer a richer, more decadent mac and cheese, use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream. This will add a luxurious texture to the sauce.
4. **Add Extra Flavor**: Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on your mac and cheese. Gruyère, fontina, or even smoked cheese can add depth to the flavor.
5. **Make it Ahead**: Mac and cheese can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop or bake it in the oven.
6. **Get Creative with Toppings**: While breadcrumbs are a classic topping, you can also add extras like crumbled bacon, sautéed onions, or even a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
### Conclusion
Good ole-fashioned mac and cheese is more than just a dish—it’s a symbol of comfort, nostalgia, and family gatherings. Whether served as a main course or as a side dish, it never fails to satisfy. The creamy, cheesy sauce, combined with perfectly cooked pasta, creates a dish that’s both indulgent and soul-soothing.
By following this simple recipe, you can recreate the mac and cheese that generations of families have loved. Experiment with different cheeses, seasonings, and toppings to make this classic dish your own. With the right ingredients and a little care, you’ll have the perfect mac and cheese ready to enjoy at any time—because some comforts never go out of style.
