Craving that creamy, cheesy, perfectly comforting Noodles and Company mac & cheese? Forget the drive-through! This recipe lets you recreate that addictive dish right in your own kitchen. It's easier than you think, and the result? A warm hug in a bowl, bursting with cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying weekend lunch, or even a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. Get ready for homemade happiness!
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
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (or a blend of other sharp cheeses)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining – you might need it later to adjust the sauce consistency.
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, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This is the base of your delicious cheese sauce.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually stir in the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until completely melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat every noodle.
Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
Step 5: 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 sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of cheeses like Gruyere, Fontina, and sharp cheddar.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Make it vegetarian/vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor to vegan versions.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Bacon bits, roasted vegetables, or chopped ham can elevate this dish to new heights.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific cheeses and ingredients used. Nutritional information is best calculated using an online nutritional calculator with your exact ingredients. However, you can expect this recipe to be relatively high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the cheese and butter content.
This delicious Noodles and Company Mac & Cheese copycat recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the comfort and ease of homemade cooking with this easy and flavorful meal! It’s a perfect example of how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. Happy cooking!