Miracle Mac and Cheese
User Reviews
4.3
-
Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
40948 kcal
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Cuisine
Vegetarian
Miracle Mac and Cheese
Description
The recipe for Miracle Mac and Cheese uses dry macaroni simmered in milk until tender, absorbing the liquid and creating a creamy base. Seasoned with salt, fresh cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, and optional Dijon mustard, the dish balances mild sharpness with a subtle smoky hint. Shredded cheddar cheese is stirred in after cooking off the heat, melting smoothly into the sauce and coating the pasta.
This dish works well as a simple side or light main when served warm. The technique avoids making a separate cheese sauce by letting the pasta absorb the milk, which reduces the number of steps and pans needed.
The recipe notes its adaptation from a source emphasizing rich and creamy mac and cheese, suggesting the flavors and texture hinge on slow simmering and frequent stirring to prevent sticking and clumping.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups milk $0.70, divided
- 2 cups macaroni $0.65, dry, about 1/2 lb
- 1 cup cheddar cheese $1.25, shredded
- 3/4 tsp salt $0.04
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard $0.04, optional
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika $0.02, optional
- 10-15 black pepper $0.02, fresh cracked, optional
Instructions
- Combine the dry macaroni and 2 cups of milk in a medium pot. Place a lid on top and bring it up to a boil over medium/high heat while occasionally stirring.
- As soon as it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let simmer, stirring often, until the pasta is tender (about 10 minutes). Make sure to stir often during this process to keep the pasta from clumping or sticking to the bottom of the pot. Promptly replace the lid each time you finish stirring to help hold in the steam.
- Once the pasta is soft and has absorbed most of the milk, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dijon, or the spices of your choice. If the mixture begins to look dry, add the remaining 1/4 cup of milk.
- Turn the heat off and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Stir the pasta frequently while simmering to prevent sticking and clumping.
- If the mixture appears too dry during cooking, add the remaining milk to maintain creaminess.
- Serve immediately after cheese is melted for best texture.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 40948 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1Serving | |
| Calories | 409.48kcal | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 50.3g | 17% |
| Protein | 18.4g | 37% |
| Fat | 14.78g | 23% |
| Sodium | 784.28mg | 33% |
| Fiber | 1.88g | 8% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.3
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