Are you craving that unbelievably rich and decadent mac and cheese you’ve only ever dreamed of? The kind that’s so good, it could rival even the famous Ruth's Chris Steak House version? Well, dream no more! This recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience, bringing the restaurant quality right to your kitchen. Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game with this easy-to-follow, homemade recipe. It's a perfect addition to any weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish for your next special occasion. This is one of those delicious dishes you'll want to make again and again.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted 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 cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This is a crucial step for perfectly cooked mac and cheese; don't overcook the pasta!
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 creamy sauce.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly. Reduce the heat to low.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Stir in the salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Slowly add the cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese:
- Use high-quality cheese: The flavor of your mac and cheese will depend heavily on the cheese you use. Opt for sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan for the best results.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the cheese sauce. Cook it al dente according to package directions.
- Use whole milk and heavy cream: This combination creates an extra creamy and rich sauce.
- Let it rest: Once baked, let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Crumble cooked bacon and stir it into the cheese sauce before adding the pasta.
- Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Add roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers to the cheese sauce before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe will yield about 8 servings. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific cheeses used. This is an approximation and should not be considered medical advice. It is recommended to use a nutrition calculator for more accurate information based on your specific ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: Approximately 30-35g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
This Ruth's Chris-inspired mac and cheese is the perfect comfort food recipe. It’s surprisingly easy to make and will surely impress your friends and family. Enjoy!