Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that will have your taste buds dancing! Our Curly Mac n Cheese is not just your average comfort food; it’s a delightful twist on a classic that promises to elevate your dinner experience. With its rich cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked curly pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite in no time. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is your ticket to cheesy heaven. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of gooey goodness that is Curly Mac n Cheese!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz curly pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of curly pasta, 2 cups of shredded cheese, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of butter, 1/4 cup of flour, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and then add the curly pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 1/4 cup of flour, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken your cheese sauce.
- Gradually pour in the 1/2 cup of milk while continuing to whisk. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the 2 cups of shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- When the pasta is done cooking, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the drained pasta and stir until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Serve the Curly Mac n Cheese hot, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Cheese: For the creamiest sauce, opt for a blend of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda. This will add depth of flavor and a delightful stretchiness to your mac n cheese.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the curly pasta just until al dente. It will continue to cook when mixed with the cheese sauce, so you want it to have a little bite to it.
- Whisk Thoroughly: When making the roux for your cheese sauce, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Add Some Spice: For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. It’ll give your dish a delightful warmth that balances the richness.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish your Curly Mac n Cheese with a sprinkle of extra cheese, fresh herbs, or even crispy breadcrumbs for added texture and visual appeal.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize your mac n cheese by adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a handful of spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 80mg
