Are you craving comfort food that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This macaroni and cheese recipe, elevated with the luscious creaminess of Philadelphia cream cheese, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a weekend gathering. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest with this simple yet decadent dish. This recipe is perfect for those searching for easy recipes and healthy meals (while still indulging a little!).
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 8 ounces Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 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
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for bread crumbs
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Remember, perfectly cooked pasta is key to amazing mac and cheese!
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue to whisk constantly until the sauce thickens. This is crucial for a creamy texture.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened Philadelphia cream cheese until melted and smooth. Then, add the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses (if using), stirring until melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat evenly. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 5: Breadcrumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend of your favorites would all be delicious.
- Add cooked bacon, ham, or roasted vegetables for extra flavor and protein. This makes it a more complete and healthy meal.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream cheese.
- If you don't have Gruyere, don't worry! Sharp cheddar alone makes a fantastic mac and cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific cheeses and ingredients used. For a general estimate using the ingredients listed above, one serving will contain approximately:
- Calories: 400-450
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This creamy, dreamy mac and cheese recipe is a delightful example of delicious dishes that are easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!