Are you craving comfort food that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This Mac and Cheese Recipe with Ritz Crackers takes the classic dish to a whole new level of cheesy, crunchy goodness. It's a perfect quick dinner idea, a fantastic healthy meal (when made with whole wheat pasta!), and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family gatherings. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Don't overcook – you want it al dente.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and thickened. This is your classic béchamel sauce – the foundation of many delicious dishes.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and Gruyère cheese (if using). Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Stir in the cooked macaroni until it's evenly coated with the cheese sauce. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a healthier option: Use whole wheat macaroni and reduce the amount of cheese slightly.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Add some veggies: Incorporate cooked broccoli, cauliflower, or peas into the macaroni and cheese for a more nutritious meal.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Fontina.
- Breadcrumbs instead of Ritz: Panko breadcrumbs make a lovely crunchy topping too.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your exact ingredients. However, a general estimate for one serving of this recipe would be around 350-400 calories, with varying amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates.
This easy Mac and Cheese recipe with Ritz crackers is a guaranteed hit. It’s a delicious dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and crunchy Ritz cracker topping creates a delightful textural contrast that will leave you wanting more. Enjoy!