Life changing ultra creamy 5 ingredient Mac and Cheese! Your ultimate comfort food.
Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly simple yet irresistibly delicious mac and cheese recipe. With just five ingredients, you’ll create a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. This dish proves that sometimes, less truly is more.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its adaptability. Whether you’re cooking for a picky eater or a gourmet enthusiast, this mac and cheese can be easily customized to suit any palate. As the pasta bubbles and the cheese melts, your kitchen will be filled with an aroma that instantly transports you back to childhood comfort.
While mac and cheese has its roots in European cuisine, it has become an iconic American dish over the centuries. This version strips the recipe down to its essence, focusing on quality ingredients that shine in their simplicity. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a luxurious side dish to complement your favorite protein.
Creamy 5 Ingredient Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
16 oz elbow macaroni
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 tsp salt
Cooking Tip: Do not use prepackaged shredded cheese, take the time to grate block cheese which will give you a much smoother cheese sauce. Cellulose is added to pre-grated varieties and will not melt evenly leaving your mac and cheese overly stringy. Also, adding a little Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp is recommended) will help break down the cheese even more!
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the milk and salt to the melted butter, stirring to combine. Heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
4. Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
6. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
Notes:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the mac and cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère and Parmesan for varied flavors
Nutrition Information
Calories: 450 per serving
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 550mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
Other Information
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Equipment: Large pot or large skillet, wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons, cheese grater
Estimated cost per serving: $1.50
Total cost: $9.00 (6 servings)
In Conclusion, Creamy 5 Ingredient Mac and Cheese
This Life-Changing creamy 5 Ingredient Mac and Cheese recipe proves that culinary magic can happen with just a handful of quality ingredients. Its simplicity, affordability, and delicious results make it a perfect go-to dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With endless possibilities for customization, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
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