Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious mac and cheese? Look no further! This recipe recreates the beloved California Pizza Kitchen's (CPK) creamy, dreamy mac and cheese, a dish that's elevated beyond the ordinary. It's surprisingly easy to make at home, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a taste of restaurant-quality comfort food, made with love in your own kitchen. This recipe provides a healthy balance and offers options for customization, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, for bread crumbs
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Boil the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Don't overcook – slightly firm pasta is key for a perfect mac and cheese.
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Make the cheese sauce: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce.
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Gradually add milk and cream: Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
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Season and add cheese: Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Reduce heat to low and gradually add the cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. The lower heat prevents scorching and ensures a creamy texture.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat evenly.
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Bake (optional): For an extra decadent mac and cheese, transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with bread crumbs and drizzle with melted butter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. This step adds a lovely crispy topping.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately. This delicious dish is perfect as a quick dinner idea or a satisfying homemade meal.
Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese:
- Use high-quality cheese: The flavor of your mac and cheese heavily relies on the cheese you use. Opt for freshly grated cheese whenever possible for the best results.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta will continue to cook in the cheese sauce, preventing a mushy texture.
- Stir constantly: Consistent stirring prevents lumps from forming in the cheese sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Adjust the salt, pepper, and nutmeg to your preference.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Crumble cooked bacon and mix it into the cheese sauce before adding the pasta.
- Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Add roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers to the pasta before mixing with the cheese sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: Approximately 30-35g
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
This CPK-inspired mac and cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It's a delicious dish that's easy to customize to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!