Are you craving a warm, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese? I know I am! This classic comfort food is a favorite for good reason, and today, I’m sharing two easy ways to get your mac and cheese fix.
Whether you like your pasta dish baked until bubbly and golden, or you prefer a quick and creamy stovetop version, I have the perfect recipes for you. Let’s make some delicious mac and cheese!
Jump to Recipe:
Classic Southern Baked Mac And Cheese
This Southern baked mac and cheese recipe delivers a rich and creamy casserole, topped with a beautiful golden crust. It’s the perfect side dish or a comforting main meal for any gathering.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Baked Mac and Cheese
- Cheese Blend: Use a mix of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a touch of Gruyere for the best flavor and melt. This makes the mac and cheese extra special.
- Pasta Choice: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but medium shells or cavatappi also hold the sauce well. Make sure to cook it al dente before baking.
- Creamy Sauce: A good béchamel base is essential; it creates a silky smooth sauce that doesn’t separate in the oven. Stir well to avoid lumps.
What You Need for Baked Mac and Cheese
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
⏱️ Time: 50 minutes🍽️ Yields: 8 servings
How to Make Your Baked Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare Pasta and Cheese
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Grate all your cheeses and mix them together for easy use later.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and stir in most of the cheese until melted. Add salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like a little heat.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
📝 Final Note
For an even richer dish, you can add a layer of buttered breadcrumbs to the top before baking. This gives a nice crunch and texture.
Quick Stovetop Mac And Cheese
When you need a cheesy comfort meal fast, this stovetop mac and cheese recipe is your answer. It’s wonderfully creamy and ready in minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Stovetop Mac and Cheese
- Evaporated Milk: Using evaporated milk instead of regular milk makes the sauce extra creamy and helps prevent it from breaking. It gives a really smooth finish.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty. Shredding your own cheese ensures a smoother, better-melting sauce.
- Cook Pasta Right: Cook your pasta in salted water until just tender. Don’t overcook, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
What You Need for Stovetop Mac and Cheese
- 1/2 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of mustard powder (optional, helps cheese flavor)
⏱️ Time: 15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 servings
How to Make Your Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta very well and return it to the hot pot.
Step 2: Make the Quick Sauce Base
Add butter, evaporated milk, salt, pepper, and mustard powder (if you are using it) to the hot pot with the cooked pasta. Stir everything together until the butter is completely melted and everything is well combined.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese and Serve
Remove the pot from the heat. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly. Continue stirring until all the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Serve your stovetop mac and cheese immediately while it’s warm.
📝 Final Note
If the sauce gets too thick while sitting, you can add a splash of warm milk to loosen it up. This will bring back its creamy texture.