Mike's Farm Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Mike’s Farm Macaroni and Cheese has garnered a lot of affection for several key reasons. First and foremost, it’s the perfect balance of creamy and cheesy, with every bite delivering the rich, comforting flavor that macaroni and cheese lovers crave. The secret lies in its high-quality cheese blend that melts effortlessly into a luscious sauce that coats each piece of pasta evenly. Furthermore, the recipe includes well-seasoned ingredients that add depth and a hint of indulgence without overwhelming the dish.
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Medium saucepan (for making the cheese sauce)
- Whisk
- Baking dish (9x13 inches preferred)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Optional: Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional, for a crispy topping
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for extra cheesy flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Start by boiling a large pot of water and adding a generous pinch of salt. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Put a medium saucepan on medium heat and melt a few tablespoons of butter. Once melted, mix in the same amount of all-purpose flour and mix until smooth. Cook this for 1-2 minutes, stirring all the time, to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Let it cook until it thickens. Then, turn the heat down and add shredded cheese, a little at a time, letting it melt before adding more. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Once your cheese sauce is done, mix in the cooked pasta with a wooden spoon or spatula. Make sure the pasta is fully covered in the creamy sauce. Taste it and add salt and pepper if needed. For more flavor, you can add a little paprika or mustard.
Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish
- Lightly grease your 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour the pasta and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Smooth the top with your spatula, ensuring a uniform surface that will crisp beautifully during baking.
Step 5: Add the Topping
- Make the dish even better with a breadcrumb topping. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle it over the macaroni, and, if you like, add a layer of shredded cheese on top for a crispy, golden crust.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to heat up. Put the baking dish in the oven and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before eating so you don’t burn your mouth.
Notes
For the best mac and cheese, always shred your cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded cheese, as it melts more smoothly. Additionally, adjust the seasonings and add-ins to your taste to make it uniquely yours while ensuring the sauce stays creamy and rich throughout the process.