homemade mac and cheese recipe
The Ultimate Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction:
Say goodbye to the traditional roux-based mac and cheese! This recipe skips the bechamel and instead uses sodium citrate, a game-changing ingredient that creates the smoothest, creamiest cheese sauce you’ll ever taste. With this method, the flavor of the cheese shines through without the heaviness of a flour-based sauce. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to the old ways!
Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 300 g of your favorite cheese, grated (Cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix)
- 279 g whole milk (93% of the cheese weight)
- 12 g sodium citrate (4% of the cheese weight)
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
- Salt for boiling water
Optional Toppings:
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp butter (melted, for breadcrumbs)
Instructions
Step 1:
Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
Step 2:
- Make the Cheese Sauce
- Pour the milk into a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in sodium citrate until dissolved.
- Bring the milk mixture to a gentle simmer (do not boil).
- Gradually add the grated cheese, one tablespoon at a time, while blending with an immersion blender. Continue until all the cheese is fully incorporated, and the sauce is silky smooth.
Step 3:
- Assemble the Mac and Cheese
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is coated.
(Optional) - Transfer to a buttered baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
Step 4:
- Serve and Enjoy
- Serve warm as a main dish or side. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor!
Tips for Making the Best Mac and Cheese
- Cheese matters: Use high-quality cheese for better flavor. A mix of sharp Cheddar, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack works beautifully.
- Sodium citrate is key: This ingredient emulsifies the cheese sauce and ensures a silky texture without curdling.
- Don’t overheat: Simmer the sauce gently to avoid breaking the emulsion.
- Customize your toppings: Add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
How to Serve Homemade Mac and Cheese
Serve hot and fresh for the creamiest texture.- Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
