Are you ready to elevate your comfort food game with a mac and cheese recipe that will make your taste buds dance? This Sour Cream Mac and Cheese is not just another pasta dish – it's a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that transforms a classic comfort food into a gourmet experience. With a perfect balance of sharp cheddar and tangy sour cream, this recipe promises to be the most luxurious and satisfying mac and cheese you've ever encountered.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare a large mixing bowl. Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander, then immediately transfer it back to the warm pot.
- Add melted butter to the hot macaroni and stir gently to coat each pasta piece evenly, ensuring the butter helps prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Pour in the milk and sour cream, mixing thoroughly to create a creamy base. The residual heat will help blend the ingredients smoothly.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously to help the cheese melt and distribute evenly throughout the pasta.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish. For a golden top, you can optionally place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the surface becomes lightly browned and crispy.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and cool slightly.
Tips
- Always use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, most melty texture. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Cook your pasta just to al dente – it will continue to absorb the sauce and soften while resting, preventing mushy mac and cheese.
- Use full-fat sour cream and milk for the richest, most indulgent flavor. The higher fat content creates a more luxurious sauce.
- If you want extra crunch, consider topping with breadcrumbs before broiling for a crispy golden crust.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the sauce to thicken and set, creating a more cohesive dish.
- For added depth of flavor, try mixing in a small amount of mustard powder or using a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar and gruyère.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 432kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 64mg
