This Mac and Cheese is a warm and cheesy hug in a bowl! With creamy cheese mixed into perfectly cooked pasta, it’s pure comfort food that everyone loves.
If you’re like me, you might add some extra cheese just for good measure. Because more cheese is always a good idea, right? 😄
This recipe is easy to whip up, and it always impresses at gatherings. I serve mine with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for a little crunch—delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese, elbow macaroni holds cheese sauce beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try cavatappi or shells for a twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness of your dish. If you’re dairy-free, you can use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative. I’ve even used olive oil in a pinch, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful flavor. For a more complex taste, you can mix in Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Just remember to keep it shredded for easy melting!
Milk and Heavy Cream: The combination makes for a creamy texture. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can substitute whole milk with 2% milk, but the creaminess will be reduced. Almond or oat milk can also work for a dairy-free version, although it may alter the flavor.
How Do I Make the Perfect Cheese Sauce?
Making the cheese sauce is a key step to achieving that creamy, luscious texture. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s frothy.
- Add flour, whisking for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. This helps thicken your sauce.
- Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. This is important for a smooth sauce!
- Once it’s thickened, season it well with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne if you want a kick.
- Finally, stir in shredded cheddar until it’s melted and smooth before mixing with the pasta.
Following these steps ensures a velvety cheese sauce that coats your macaroni perfectly. Happy cooking!
Paula Deen’s Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for slight heat)
- 8 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious mac and cheese takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes for baking. Total time is approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. Just enough time to set the table and get ready to enjoy a delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, butter a large baking dish or Dutch oven to prevent sticking and make serving easier later on!
2. Cooking the Pasta:
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the elbow macaroni following the package directions until it’s just al dente (firm). Drain the macaroni and set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Making the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s foamy and bubbly. Slowly whisk in the flour and cook for about 2-3 minutes to create a roux, stirring continuously to keep it smooth without lumps.
4. Mixing in Dairy:
Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking. Continue stirring for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
5. Seasoning the Sauce:
Now, season your cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper for a little kick. Give it a good whisk to blend all the flavors together.
6. Adding the Cheese:
Take the sauce off the heat and stir in 6 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing until it’s melted and smooth. Your sauce should be rich and cheesy at this point!
7. Combining with Pasta:
Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir until everything is well combined. You want every noodle to be smothered in that delicious cheese sauce!
8. Baking the Mac and Cheese:
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheddar cheese evenly on top. This will create that beautifully golden crust when baked.
9. Cooking to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden, bubbly, and slightly browned. Seriously, your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Serving Your Dish:
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and allow your mac and cheese to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a bit before serving.
11. Garnishing:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness. It looks lovely and adds a nice hint of flavor!
This recipe creates a rich, creamy mac and cheese that’s baked to perfection with a golden cheesy top, just like Paula Deen’s style. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as cavatappi, shells, or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for the pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor. You can customize this dish to fit your taste preferences!
