Uncle Jack’s Classic Mac and Cheese Recipe
Uncle Jack’s Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food dish featuring tender pasta enveloped in a creamy, rich cheddar cheese sauce, baked to golden, bubbly perfection. This timeless recipe combines simple ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni pasta
Cheese Sauce
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste, forming a roux.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens and is smooth, about 5-7 minutes. Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and dry mustard if using. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Bake the Mac and Cheese: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy classic mac and cheese!
Notes
- For a creamier sauce, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
- Add breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor.
- You can add cooked bacon bits or sautéed vegetables for variation.
Keywords: mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheddar cheese pasta, comfort food
