McAlister’s Mac and Cheese Recipe
If you love creamy mac and cheese, you will love this. McAlister’s mac and cheese is rich and cheesy. It tastes like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp mustard powder optional
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional topping
Instructions
Cook the pasta
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the roux
- Melt butter in a saucepan. Add flour and whisk for one minute.
Add milk
- Slowly pour milk into the roux. Whisk constantly to avoid lumps.
Add cheese
- Add cheddar and mozzarella. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
Season the sauce
- Add salt, pepper and mustard powder. Taste and adjust.
Mix pasta with sauce
- Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir until all noodles are coated.
Transfer to baking dish
- Pour mac and cheese into a baking dish if desired. This makes it extra cozy.
Add breadcrumb topping
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. This adds a crunchy layer.
Bake until golden
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. Broil for 2 minutes if you want more crisp.
Serve warm
- Let it cool for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor.
- Add cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Mix in cooked bacon for a smoky twist.
- Add jalapeños for spice.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version.
- Try topping with crushed potato chips for crunch.