Classic Cheddar Mac and Cheese
A creamy and comforting dish that showcases the delicious taste of cheddar cheese, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.
- 3 tablespoons butter For sauce.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour For thickening the sauce.
- 2 cups milk (warm) Gradually whisked into the sauce.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese For the cheese sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder Enhances flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.
For the Cheddar-Stuffed Burgers
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean) For the burgers.
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes For stuffing.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder For seasoning.
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.
- as needed burger buns and toppings For assembling burgers.
For the Cheddar and Herb Biscuits
- 2 cups all-purpose flour For biscuits.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder For leavening.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt For flavor.
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed For flakiness.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese For flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives For added flavor.
- 3/4 cup milk To form the dough.
Instructions
Classic Cheddar Mac and Cheese Preparation
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cheddar cheese and mix until smooth.
- Toss the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Serve hot.
Cheddar-Stuffed Burgers Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
- Divide the beef mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a patty.
- Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center of 4 patties. Cover with the remaining patties and pinch the edges to seal.
- Grill or pan-fry the burgers over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Assemble the burgers with buns and toppings. Serve hot.
Cheddar and Herb Biscuits Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and herbs. Gradually add milk, mixing until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently. Roll to 1-inch thickness and cut into biscuits.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden. Serve warm.
Notes
Cheddar pairs well with fruits like apples and grapes. Best enjoyed with beverages like red wine or cider. Store properly to maintain freshness.