I read a tip from Cooks Illustrated to add some starch to those cheeses that don’t naturally melt well. It may be more noticeable for higher-fat cheeses and make for an unattractive broken sauce. As the proteins regroup, you may get a gritty texture from and a pool of oil that separates. The proteins in the cheese must break down with heat before they can flow. One typical mac n’ cheese pitfall is that the cheese may become gritty and clumpy once added to the cream sauce. I noticed that the Monterey Jack cheese gives a Velveeta-like texture that I was looking for, compared to the other times when I just used all cheddar cheese. If you like stronger more pungent flavors, you can add in some aged Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, Swiss or Gouda in combination with the Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. They also catch the sauce inside the noodle for more flavor. Pasta: Using shorter kinds of pasta such as elbow, rotini, or cavatappi are perfect for thicker cheese sauces because they hold its shape.The aged cheddar provides a subtle flavor while the Monetary Jack creates a super creamy consistency because it’s a higher moisture level. Choosing the Cheese: I use sharp aged Cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese for the sauce.A roux-based sauce uses flour and butter as a base with milk, then allowing the starches to swell and thicken, essentially creating a béchamel sauce. Add a Roux: To achieve a creamy sauce texture add starch to the cheese as it melts to prevent clumping.This was probably my first exposure to food science, and I didn’t even know it! This recipe uses wholesome ingredients to maximize flavor without the preservatives.

My love for mac and cheese began like most American kids born in the ’80s, with the classic blue box of Kraft mac n’ cheese that contained two essential ingredients: elbow noodles and a packet of cheese powder that never completely dissolved. You’re going to love the crunchy panko bread crumbs on top! A combination of melty cheeses and milk helps to nail just the right creamy texture to coat those noodles. This simple recipe uses a traditional roux base to help thicken the sauce. There will be no leftovers!īaked macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. A childhood favorite noodle dish that kids will love but elevated enough that adults will devour. Baked macaroni and cheese with crunchy panko bread crumbs on top.

Mac and cheese roux ratio