why make this recipe

Monster Mac and Cheese is a fun twist on the classic mac and cheese dish. It’s a creamy, cheesy delight that is perfect for family dinners, movie nights, or even parties. With gooey cheese and comforting pasta, this dish is sure to please everyone. Plus, you can customize it with tasty toppings to make it even more special!

how to make Monster Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 cups milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: bacon bits, breadcrumbs, chives, or hot sauce

Directions:

Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for about 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until thickened, stirring frequently.
Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well combined.
Transfer to a baking dish and top with your choice of toppings.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Enjoy!

how to serve Monster Mac and Cheese

Serve Monster Mac and Cheese hot out of the oven. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can also place some on a plate and sprinkle with extra cheese or your favorite toppings like bacon bits or chives for added flavor.

how to store Monster Mac and Cheese

To store leftover Monster Mac and Cheese, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

tips to make Monster Mac and Cheese

For extra creaminess, try adding a bit more cheese or a splash of cream to the cheese sauce.
Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be slightly firm since it will bake again in the oven.
Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor.

variation

You can easily change this recipe by adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. Another fun twist is to mix in cooked meats like chicken or sausage for added protein.

FAQs

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute standard macaroni with gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: You can add hot sauce into the cheese sauce or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking.

Q: Can I prepare Monster Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately and combine before baking. You can also bake it ahead and reheat later.

Monster Mac and Cheese