Martha Stewart is a household name when it comes to cooking and baking, and her recipes are always a hit. One of her most beloved recipes is her Martha Stewart recipe for mac and cheese. This creamy, comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a formal gathering. Let’s dive into the details of this classic recipe and learn how to make it just like Martha herself.
Mac and cheese is a dish that has been around for centuries, with various versions and variations across different cultures. However, Martha Stewart’s recipe has a unique twist that sets it apart from the rest. The key to her recipe lies in the combination of ingredients and the technique used to create that rich, creamy texture. Let’s go through the ingredients and steps to make this mouthwatering dish.
First, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow macaroni
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Now, let’s move on to the steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until combined to create a roux.
4. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. This process may take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and well combined.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
8. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder to taste.
9. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
10. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika together to create a topping.
11. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
13. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Martha Stewart’s recipe for mac and cheese is a timeless classic that will impress everyone who tries it. The creamy texture, combined with the crispy breadcrumb topping, creates a mouthwatering dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
