Best Mac And Cheese Recipe (Vegetarian)
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking for a meatless meal, this recipe is perfect for you. I've tested and tweaked this recipe over the years, and I'm confident that it's the best one out there. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Recipes Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Recipe Category: Main Dish
- Recipe Cuisine: American
- Aggregate Rating: 5.0
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions.
- While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer and thickens.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's melted and smooth.
- Drain the macaroni and add it to the cheese sauce, stirring until everything is well combined.
- Pour the mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and chopped parsley.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the mac and cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 479 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 62mg |
| Carbohydrates | 51g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 9g |
| Sodium | 766mg |
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! You can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Swiss.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. Just make sure to add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- How can I make this recipe healthier? You can use whole wheat pasta and low-fat milk to make this recipe healthier. You can also add some vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach, to boost the nutritional value.
- How can I make this recipe spicier? You can add more cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to make this recipe spicier.
Recipes Tips
If you're looking for a way to make this recipe even more delicious, here are a few tips:
1. Use high-quality cheese: The cheese is the star of this recipe, so make sure to use a good quality cheese that melts well.
2. Add some crunch: The breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunch to the mac and cheese. You can also add some chopped nuts or crispy bacon for extra texture.
3. Experiment with different flavors: You can add different herbs and spices to the cheese sauce to give it a different flavor. Try adding some garlic powder, smoked paprika, or thyme.
With these tips and tricks, you'll be able to make the best mac and cheese ever! Enjoy!