The Queens Mac a Royally Good Homemade Mac Cheese

Recipe Introduction: The Queen's Mac

Fancy a bit of comfort food? Honestly, who doesn't love a proper homemade macaroni and cheese recipe ?

Quick Hook

Ever have one of those days where only cheesy goodness will do? This homemade macaroni and cheese recipe is your answer.

It is creamy, comforting, and downright addictive. It is like a warm hug.

Brief Overview

This classic mac and cheese takes inspiration from the traditional British cheese sauce. It's elevated with a touch of American flair.

It's a medium difficulty recipe, taking about 55 minutes total. It yields six generous servings. Get ready to indulge!

Main Benefits

This mac and cheese recipe is packed with calcium from the cheese and milk. It's the perfect dish for a cosy night in.

Or even a potluck with your mates. What makes this baked mac and cheese special? The creamy cheese sauce and crispy topping.

Time to gather your ingredients!

Let's get started with the best homemade mac and cheese . We're talking about pasta. Then, the dreamy cheese sauce .

What You Will Need To Whip Up The Best Homemade Mac & Cheese

Here are the ingredients for this creamy macaroni cheese recipe .

• 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (710ml) whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 4 cups (approximately 450g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (approximately 115g) shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
• Pinch of paprika (optional)

Alright, let's talk about the good stuff, yeah?

We're diving into what you actually need to make this best homemade mac and cheese recipe sing. It's all about the ingredients and a few trusty tools.

Don't worry, it's nothing too fancy! I want to share my best homemade macaroni and cheese recipe with you.

Ingredients & Equipment: The Lowdown

Listen up! This is where the magic really happens. The quality of your ingredients makes all the difference. Honestly, sometimes the best part is just gathering everything before you get started.

Main Ingredients

• Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (450g) . Go for a good quality brand. It makes a difference!
• Butter: 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted.
• Flour: 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose.
• Whole Milk: 3 cups (710ml) . The full fat stuff is essential for the creaminess.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon Trust me on this! It adds a special something.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups (approx. 450g) shredded. Get a good sharp cheddar. Seriously.
• Gruyere Cheese: 1 cup (approx. 115g) shredded. This is optional, but makes the cheese pull unreal.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
• Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons for the topping
• Paprika: Just a pinch

Want that classic mac and cheese taste? Then focus on using the best quality cheddar that you can afford. Seriously, it makes the cheese sauce incredible.

Seasoning Notes

Nutmeg and pepper? They're non-negotiable, fam. This creamy macaroni cheese recipe needs these. A little cayenne? Go for it if you're feeling spicy!

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Large Saucepan: For the cheese sauce.
• Whisk: Absolutely essential . Get the lumps out, yeah?
• 9x13 inch Baking Dish
• Cheese Grater: Honestly, grating your cheese is worth it.

The Queen's Mac: A Royally Good Homemade Mac & Cheese

Honestly, who doesn't love a good mac and cheese recipe ? It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening.

But we aren't talking about that powdery, packet stuff. This is the real deal: a creamy macaroni cheese recipe that'll knock your socks off.

This classic mac and cheese is based on the Allrecipes.com version. It's a bit cheeky to call it the Queen's Mac, but trust me, it's fit for royalty.

Prep Steps for Mac Perfection

First, let's get our ducks in a row. It's essential to have everything ready. "Mise en place," as the fancy chefs say.

Grate your cheddar. Then, grate your Gruyere. Honestly, pre-shredded cheese can be a bit pants. So, go for freshly grated if you can.

Measure out your flour, milk, and spices. Doing this saves you time and stress when the heat is on! Speaking of heat, remember to be careful when working with the hob!

Creating a Rich, Decadent Cheese Sauce

1. Boil 450g of elbow macaroni until al dente . Don't overcook! Drain well. Set it aside.
2. Melt 85g of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 60g of flour. Cook for 1- 2 minutes to make a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in 710ml of milk. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens. About 5- 7 minutes. No lumps, please!
4. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg.
5. Remove from heat. Add 450g of cheddar and 115g of Gruyere cheese. Stir until smooth!
6. Add the macaroni to the cheese sauce . Stir to coat. Pour into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. Optional breadcrumb topping: Mix 1/2 cup panko with 2 tablespoons melted butter and a pinch of paprika. Sprinkle on top.
8. Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 15 minutes . Until it's golden brown and bubbly.

Pro Tips for a Gourmet Mac and Cheese

Use good cheese! Seriously. The better the cheddar, the better the result. Also, don't burn the roux! Keep the heat low.

Stir constantly. My worst mistake was leaving it unattended to answer the phone, doh! If you want easy mac and cheese recipe , skip the baking part, and serve straight from the stovetop, then you have a one pot mac and cheese recipe !

Recipe Notes for The Queen's Mac

Right, let's talk about the nitty gritty of this glorious homemade macaroni and cheese recipe . This isn't just any mac and cheese recipe , it's the best homemade mac and cheese you'll ever make, promise.

Seriously, you'll ditch the ready meals after this, guv'nor.

Serving fit for Royalty

Think posh pub grub. Plating wise, a simple bowl does the trick. For presentation, a sprinkle of extra cheese and a sprig of parsley elevate it.

A creamy macaroni cheese recipe deserves a stylish serve. It is a classic mac and cheese dish, let's treat it that way.

Now, what to serve with it? A simple side salad is ace. The sharpness cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce .

Garlic bread? Absolutely! Roasted veggies like sprouts work a treat too. As for drinks, a crisp, dry white wine pairs beautifully.

Or, you know, a pint of your favourite ale. It will be a gourmet mac and cheese experience.

Storing Like a Pro

Listen up, storing this easy mac and cheese recipe is simple. Any leftovers of your amazing baked mac and cheese ? Pop the mac into an airtight container.

Into the fridge it goes. It'll keep for 3-4 days . To reheat, microwave it until piping hot. Alternatively, bake in the oven until bubbly.

Freezing is an option, but the texture might change slightly. It's still darn tasty, though. Thaw it completely before reheating.

When you have that one pot mac and cheese recipe , you do not have to worry about storing the sauce separately!

Twists on a Classic

Fancy a change? Of course, you do! For a veggie version, chuck in some roasted broccoli. It adds texture and goodness.

gluten-free? Easy peasy. Use gluten-free pasta and flour. Just as delicious, promise. I've tried both and honestly, I can't tell the difference.

Seasonal swaps are fun too. In autumn, butternut squash adds a lovely sweetness. In spring, asparagus brightens things up. Get creative! You know that sometimes it is not possible to follow a recipe from the start.

Nutritional Bits

Okay, let's get a bit serious. This homemade macaroni and cheese recipe is not exactly a health food. But it's soul food.

It contains roughly 650 calories per serving. It also packs a good punch of protein and calcium.

Remember, everything in moderation. If you are looking at the healthy benefits, the calcium and protein will contribute to bone health.

This information is a good starting point, but be sure to check it with your specific ingredients.

There you have it! All the tips and tricks to make the ultimate homemade mac and cheese. Now get in the kitchen and get cooking! You've got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

My cheese sauce is lumpy! Help! What did I do wrong when making this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe?

Oh dear, a lumpy cheese sauce is a common kitchen mishap, but easily fixed! It usually happens when the roux (butter and flour mixture) isn't properly combined with the milk, or the milk is added too quickly. Next time, make sure to whisk the roux constantly while gradually adding warm milk.

If you do end up with lumps, try using an immersion blender to smooth it out or strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve. Think of it as a kitchen rescue mission!

Can I make this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe ahead of time? I'm proper knackered and want to make it now and bake it later.

Absolutely, you can prep this beauty in advance! Assemble the mac and cheese up to the baking step, then cover it tightly with cling film and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.

You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through properly.

What kind of cheese is best for this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe? Should I get the cheap stuff from Tesco?

While you can use any cheese you like, the quality of the cheese will definitely impact the flavour. A good sharp cheddar is a must for that classic mac and cheese tang. Adding a bit of Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked cheese can add a lovely depth of flavour.

Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains cellulose that prevents it from melting smoothly. Think of it like choosing a fine wine a good cheese elevates the whole experience!

I'm trying to be a bit healthier (because of the Christmas pudding!) are there any ways to lighten up this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe?

Good on you for trying to be a bit healthier! You can make a few smart swaps to lighten things up. Try using whole wheat macaroni for added fiber. Substitute some of the whole milk with skim milk, but be aware it will alter the sauce richness.

Another trick is to add some roasted vegetables like cauliflower or butternut squash to bulk up the dish with nutrients and reduce the overall amount of cheese needed. Every little helps, right?

How long does leftover homemade macaroni and cheese last, and what's the best way to reheat it?

Leftover mac and cheese, if stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat it without drying it out, add a splash of milk or cream before microwaving or baking it.

Microwaving is quicker for a single serving, but baking it in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) with a bit of extra cheese on top will give you a more evenly heated and satisfying result. Think of it as a cheesy resurrection!