π§ Best Macaroni and Cheese π
Donβt Lose This Recipe ππ₯° β A Creamy, Baked Classic Everyone Loves
Macaroni and Cheese is more than just a dish β itβs comfort, nostalgia, and pure joy in every bite. Creamy on the inside, lightly golden on top, and packed with rich cheesy flavor, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, holidays, potlucks, or anytime you crave something warm and satisfying. This version uses evaporated milk and eggs for a custard-style texture that melts in your mouth and never turns dry.
Once you make it this way, it will become your go-to mac and cheese forever.
π§Ύ Ingredients
Pasta Base
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
- Water (for boiling)
- 1 tsp salt (for pasta water)
Creamy Cheese Mixture
- 4 Tbsp salted butter
- 2 cans (370 ml / 12 oz each) evaporated milk
- 1/3 cup milk of choice (whole milk recommended)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 tsp garlic salt
Cheese (Essential!)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Colby Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mild cheddar
Optional Flavor Boosters
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
π©βπ³ Instructions (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until just al dente (slightly firm).
Drain and set aside. Do not overcook β the pasta will finish cooking in the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Base
In a large bowl:
- Melt the butter
- Whisk in evaporated milk and regular milk
- Add eggs and whisk until smooth
- Stir in garlic salt and optional seasonings
This mixture creates the signature custard-style mac and cheese texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Mac and Cheese
Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Spread half of the cooked macaroni in the dish
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheeses
- Pour half of the milk mixture
- Repeat layers
- Finish with extra cheese on top for a golden crust
Step 4: Bake
Bake uncovered for 35β40 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving β this helps it set perfectly.
π₯ Cooking Methods
βοΈ Baked (Classic & Best)
- Rich, creamy inside
- Golden cheesy top
- Perfect for gatherings
βοΈ Stovetop (Quick Option)
- Skip eggs
- Use extra milk
- Melt cheese gently over low heat
βοΈ Make-Ahead Method
- Assemble, cover, refrigerate
- Bake when ready
- Add 10 extra minutes to bake time
π History of Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese dates back to 18th-century Europe, but it became iconic in America thanks to Thomas Jefferson, who introduced the dish after visiting France and Italy. Over time, it evolved into a beloved comfort food β especially in Southern kitchens, where baked versions with eggs and evaporated milk became tradition.
π§© Formation & Texture Secrets
- Evaporated milk = ultra-creamy without heaviness
- Eggs = custard-like structure
- Multiple cheeses = depth of flavor
- Al dente pasta = perfect final texture
This balance ensures the mac and cheese is never dry, never grainy, always creamy.
β€οΈ Who Loves This Recipe?
- Families & kids
- Holiday dinner tables
- Potluck stars
- Comfort food lovers
- Cheese lovers (especially them π)
This dish disappears fast β seconds are guaranteed.
π Conclusion
This Best Macaroni and Cheese recipe is rich, creamy, classic, and unforgettable. Whether youβre serving it as a main dish or a side, it delivers comfort and flavor every single time. Save it, share it, and make it often β because good mac and cheese never goes out of style π§β¨