Phyllis’s Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food. With a creamy cheese sauce made from extra-sharp and sharp Cheddar, every bite is rich, indulgent, and satisfying. The elbow macaroni is cooked just right, holding up well under the layers of melted cheese and the golden breadcrumb topping that adds a delightful crunch. It’s the ultimate cozy dish, perfect for sharing with family or indulging solo.
Whether for a family meal, holiday gathering, or just a night of craving something deliciously cheesy, this mac and cheese hits all the right notes. The breadcrumb topping brings a bit of texture, complementing the smooth and creamy pasta underneath. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, and watch everyone’s face light up with comfort and delight.
Full Recipe:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese, cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add milk and bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Mix flour with 2 to 3 tablespoons of water until smooth, then stir into the simmering milk. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Add cubed extra-sharp and sharp Cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Remove from heat.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain.
- Melt remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with the cooked macaroni. Stir in eggs, then add the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Top with shredded cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until golden-brown and bubbling.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 430 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
The Comfort of Home: Phyllis’s Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke nostalgia and warmth quite like baked macaroni and cheese. Phyllis’s Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is a classic that brings together the richness of cheese with the satisfying texture of baked pasta. This version of mac and cheese is not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that combines creamy and crispy textures, and it’s a hearty meal that holds a special place in the hearts of many. In this article, we’ll dive into what makes Phyllis’s recipe so special, its history, and some tips for making it the best it can be. We’ll also explore various ways to customize and pair this dish, making it adaptable for any occasion.
A Brief History of Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese has a fascinating history that spans several centuries and continents. While pasta and cheese combinations were enjoyed in Europe for centuries, the version we know and love today originated in the United States. President Thomas Jefferson is often credited with bringing macaroni to the U.S. after discovering it on a trip to Italy. Jefferson was so fond of pasta that he even imported a pasta machine to recreate this delicacy at home. Over time, recipes incorporating cheese became more popular, especially as processed cheese and pasta became widely available in the 20th century.
The baked version of mac and cheese, with a golden crust, became a staple in American households and soul food culture. Its simple ingredients and hearty composition made it affordable and filling, giving it a beloved place in American kitchens. Phyllis’s version of baked mac and cheese pays homage to this tradition with a blend of cheddar cheeses and a crispy breadcrumb topping that adds the perfect amount of crunch to every creamy bite.
What Makes Phyllis’s Recipe Unique?
Phyllis’s recipe is unique because it doesn’t rely on shortcuts but instead focuses on quality ingredients and techniques that make each layer of the dish stand out. The creamy cheese sauce is built from extra-sharp and sharp cheddar cheeses, which bring a depth of flavor and richness that’s balanced by the slightly crunchy topping of seasoned breadcrumbs. Another standout element is that the macaroni is cooked to al dente perfection, ensuring the pasta maintains a slight bite even after baking.
One option Phyllis suggests for this recipe is adding sautéed shrimp to the mac and cheese for an elevated version of this classic comfort food. This addition provides a surprising twist, adding seafood richness to each forkful, and the shrimp pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.
Preparation Tips for the Perfect Baked Mac and Cheese
Creating the ideal baked mac and cheese requires a few tricks to get the creamy, gooey, and crispy textures just right. Here are some top tips to keep in mind:
- Choose Quality Cheeses: Using high-quality cheddar cheeses, particularly extra-sharp varieties, makes a significant difference in flavor. The sharper the cheese, the more intense and satisfying the overall taste will be. Feel free to add other cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for added complexity.
- Make a Roux for a Smooth Sauce: The cheese sauce in Phyllis’s recipe begins with a roux, a mixture of butter and flour. Cooking the roux until it’s slightly golden and adding milk creates a smooth, thick sauce base that prevents clumping when the cheese is added. Stir constantly while adding cheese to keep the sauce silky.
- Don’t Overcook the Macaroni: The pasta should be cooked just until al dente, or even slightly undercooked, before combining with the cheese sauce. This ensures that the macaroni absorbs some sauce while baking without becoming mushy.
- Perfecting the Topping: A blend of breadcrumbs and shredded cheese adds a golden crust to the top of the mac and cheese. For even more flavor, season the breadcrumbs with herbs like thyme or rosemary and add a dash of garlic powder. This extra step makes the topping flavorful and aromatic.
Variations to Try
One of the wonderful things about mac and cheese is its versatility. While Phyllis’s original recipe is a classic, there are many ways to adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese: Add finely chopped jalapeños and a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a spicy twist that brings heat to every creamy bite. Top with sliced jalapeños for a bolder presentation.
- Truffle Mac and Cheese: Drizzle a bit of truffle oil over the finished dish or mix truffle paste into the cheese sauce. This gourmet addition pairs well with the sharp cheddar flavors and makes the dish feel extra special.
- Broccoli and Cheddar Mac: For a hint of green and some added nutrients, mix in steamed broccoli florets. The mild bitterness of broccoli is a great counterpoint to the rich cheese sauce.
- Bacon and Caramelized Onion Mac and Cheese: Adding crispy bacon bits and sweet caramelized onions can enhance the depth of flavor and bring a smoky-sweet element to the mac and cheese.
- Vegan Mac and Cheese: Swap out the cheese for a vegan alternative and use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor while keeping the dish dairy-free.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Phyllis’s baked mac and cheese is substantial on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and main dishes. For a balanced meal, try serving it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. This contrast in textures and flavors provides a lightness that complements the richness of the mac and cheese. A crisp apple and walnut salad, for example, brings a sweet, crunchy contrast.
For those looking to make mac and cheese a part of a larger spread, it works well as a side dish for roasted meats like chicken or ham. The flavors meld seamlessly, especially when paired with smoky or herbed main dishes. If you’re adding shrimp to the mac and cheese, try pairing it with white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity of the wine helps balance the dish’s creaminess, while its subtle notes of citrus and green apple enhance the cheddar’s sharpness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
One of the benefits of baked mac and cheese is that it can easily be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. When storing leftovers, cover the dish with aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container to retain moisture. To reheat, warm in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F, to avoid drying out. If the mac and cheese seems a little dry, stir in a small amount of milk before reheating.
For freezer storage, prepare the mac and cheese as directed but stop before baking. Allow it to cool, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as instructed. This method is perfect for meal prep, as it allows you to have a comforting, homemade dish ready to go whenever you need it.
Conclusion: A Dish That Brings People Together
Phyllis’s Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is a reminder of the power of food to comfort, nourish, and connect us. This dish embodies everything we love about comfort food: it’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, with a perfect mix of textures that appeal to all ages. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal, it’s the type of dish that encourages gathering around the table and savoring each bite. As one of those timeless recipes that can be customized in countless ways, Phyllis’s mac and cheese holds a cherished place in any recipe collection, promising warmth and satisfaction every time it’s served.
In the end, a bowl of baked mac and cheese isn’t just about the ingredients or the cooking process. It’s about the memories it creates, the conversations it fuels, and the simple joy of enjoying something deliciously familiar. This recipe is a testament to the magic of home-cooked meals and a dish that’s as fulfilling to prepare as it is to eat.