If you’re searching for a comforting, delicious, and incredibly easy-to-make dinner, look no further than this Easy Fashion Mac and Cheese recipe. Imagine creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to golden perfection. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.
I remember the first time I made this recipe for my family. It was a rainy Friday evening, and I needed something quick and comforting. The aroma of the bubbling cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta filled the house and had everyone eagerly waiting at the dinner table. The first bite was a revelation—rich, creamy, and downright comforting. It quickly became a favorite in our household, requested time and time again.
This recipe combines a few pantry staples with a variety of cheeses to create a meal that’s both impressive and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the details!
Quick Overview: A Todd Wilbur-Inspired Summary
Easy Fashion Mac and Cheese brings together perfectly cooked pasta with a creamy, cheesy sauce for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is sure to please with its rich flavors and simple preparation.
A Family Favorite: An Exciting Story
One rainy Friday evening, I needed a quick and comforting dinner for my family. As the cheese sauce bubbled away and the macaroni baked to perfection, the house filled with an irresistible aroma. The first bite was a revelation—rich, creamy, and downright comforting. This dish quickly became a household favorite, requested time and time again.
Why This Easy Fashion Mac and Cheese?
Ultra-Creamy: Perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
Versatile: Great for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with both kids and adults alike.
How to Make Easy Fashion Mac and Cheese
- 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. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until it forms a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Bake (Optional):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top if using.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips For Easy Fashion Mac and Cheese
- Cheese: Use a mix of cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Pasta: Substitute with different pasta shapes like shells or penne.
Substitutions and Variations
- Milk: Use half-and-half or heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
- Butter: Substitute with margarine or a vegan butter alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
Make a Healthier Version
- Cheese: Use reduced-fat cheeses.
- Milk: Substitute with skim milk or a plant-based milk.
- Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
And there you have it! Don’t forget to let us know how your Easy Fashion Mac and Cheese turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes:
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Fashion Mac and Cheese
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat in the oven before serving.
Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.
How long does this dish stay fresh? It stays fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What sides go well with this dish? A fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread are great options.
Is this dish kid-friendly? Yes, the creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta are usually a hit with kids.
Can I add vegetables to the dish? Yes, adding cooked broccoli, peas, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy? Ensure you cook the sauce over low heat and use freshly grated cheese for the best texture.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? It’s best to use freshly grated cheese as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
What can I do with leftovers? Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave and served with a side salad or vegetables.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any short pasta shape like shells, penne, or fusilli works well.
Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
Easy Fashion Mac and Cheese Recipe
Course: All Recipes, Dinner Recipe, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- 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. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until it forms a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Bake (Optional):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top if using.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!