5 Secrets to Making the Best Skillet Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. While the boxed version is convenient, making homemade mac and cheese from scratch can take your culinary skills to the next level. One popular variation of this classic dish is skillet mac and cheese, which is cooked in a cast iron skillet for a crispy and delicious result. In this article, we will share five secrets to making the best skillet mac and cheese that will impress your family and friends.
Use the Right Cheese Combination
The key to a flavorful and creamy mac and cheese is using a combination of cheeses. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, known for its sharpness and meltability. However, it is recommended to mix it with other cheeses to add depth of flavor. Gruyere, Fontina, and Monterey Jack are all excellent options that melt well and provide a rich taste. You can experiment with different cheese combinations to find the perfect blend for your taste buds.
Make a Flavourful Cheese Sauce
The cheese sauce is the heart of any mac and cheese dish. To make a flavorful sauce, start by melting butter in the skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in flour to create a roux. This mixture will thicken the sauce. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Once the mixture has thickened, add the shredded cheese and stir until it has melted and the sauce is smooth. For extra flavor, you can add spices such as mustard powder, garlic powder, or paprika.
Cook the Pasta Al Dente
For the perfect skillet mac and cheese, it is important to cook the pasta al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, indicating that the pasta is cooked until it is still firm when bitten. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook when it is baked in the oven with the cheese sauce. If the pasta is overcooked initially, it could become mushy and lose its shape. So, follow the cooking instructions on the pasta package and test the pasta for doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time.
Add Toppings for Crunch and Texture
While a cheesy mac and cheese is delicious on its own, adding toppings can take it to the next level. Consider adding a layer of buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the cheese sauce before baking. This will create a crispy and textured crust that contrasts well with the creamy mac and cheese underneath. Other popular toppings include bacon bits, diced tomatoes, or sautéed onions. Get creative and experiment with different toppings to add extra flavor and texture to your skillet mac and cheese.
Baking the Mac and Cheese to Perfection
The final step to making the best skillet mac and cheese is baking it to perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mac and cheese for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent it from burning. Once it is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together. Serve it hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of your homemade skillet mac and cheese.
