Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious mac and cheese? Forget the boxed stuff! This recipe elevates the classic dish to a whole new level of creamy perfection, all thanks to a secret ingredient: Carnation evaporated milk. This simple addition creates an unbelievably smooth and rich sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). Get ready for a quick and easy dinner that feels like a gourmet experience – perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This healthy twist on a classic comfort food is sure to become one of your go-to easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups Carnation evaporated milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for a warm, nutty flavor)
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta 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: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This is the base of your creamy sauce.
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Gradually whisk in the milk: Slowly pour in the Carnation evaporated milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. This takes a few minutes; patience is key!
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Stir in the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses (if using). Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Season and combine: Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Add the cooked macaroni and gently toss to coat everything evenly in the luscious cheese sauce.
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Bake (optional): For an extra decadent mac and cheese, pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and melted butter (optional). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for Mac and Cheese Perfection:
- Use good quality cheese: The flavor of your mac and cheese depends heavily on the cheese you use. Sharp cheddar is a classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other varieties.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta will finish cooking in the cheese sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Whisk constantly: This prevents lumps from forming in the cheese sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or nutmeg as needed to suit your taste.
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 over the top before baking.
- Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Stir in cooked broccoli, cauliflower, or peas along with the pasta.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without breadcrumbs):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious mac and cheese recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking, perfect for a quick dinner, and packed with flavor. It's a healthy meal option compared to many other creamy pasta dishes, making it a great addition to your best recipes collection. Enjoy!