Uncle Jack’s Classic Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Uncle Jack’s Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic that everyone loves. This simple recipe combines tender pasta with a creamy, cheesy sauce for a dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the milk and cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce and stir well to coat evenly.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and gouda for a richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of mustard powder or paprika to the cheese sauce for extra depth.
- Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for a crispy crust.
Storage
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape works well, but elbow macaroni or shells are traditional choices that hold the cheese sauce nicely.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Use lower heat when melting the cheese and stir constantly. Adding cheese gradually and ensuring the milk is warm can also help maintain a smooth sauce.
PrintUncle Jack’s Classic Mac and Cheese Recipe
Uncle Jack’s Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food dish featuring tender pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This easy-to-make recipe combines simple ingredients to create a delicious, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Slowly add the milk and warm it until it begins to steam but not boil. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta back into the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly to coat all the noodles evenly with the cheesy mixture.
- Serve: Serve the mac and cheese hot as a comforting main dish or side.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a richer flavor or combine with mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce milk slightly or add a tablespoon of flour to the butter to make a roux before adding milk.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of paprika or breadcrumbs on top if baking.
- To keep it gluten free, substitute pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties.
Keywords: Mac and Cheese, cheddar cheese recipe, comfort food, easy pasta dish, creamy cheese sauce
