Homeroom Mac and Cheese is a classic American comfort food that is easy to make at home. This delicious homemade version requires only a few simple ingredients but packs in tons of cheesy flavor.
It’s a great weeknight dinner option or party dish that everyone will love! The secret lies in the combination of sharp cheddar cheese and Pecorino Romano cheese, which gives it a sharp and nutty flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
Plus, this is made with just one pot, so cleanup is a breeze! Follow the step-by-step instructions to learn how to make Homeroom Mac and Cheese at home.
What is Homeroom Mac and Cheese?
Homeroom Mac and Cheese is an American classic that consists of macaroni in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a comfort food favorite that can be served as a main dish or side.
This homemade version is made with just one pot and requires only a few simple ingredients: elbow macaroni, all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, whole milk, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, kosher salt, Panko, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese.
The combination of the sharp cheddar and nutty Pecorino cheeses gives this dish its signature flavor. The crunchy topping of panko breadcrumbs adds a nice texture contrast to the creamy sauce. It’s a dish that is sure to please both kids and adults alike!
How did I first get introduced to the Homeroom Mac and Cheese?
I was first introduced to the Homeroom Mac and Cheese when I visited the restaurant in Oakland, California. I had heard about this amazing macaroni and cheese dish before but never had the chance to try it until now.
As soon as I stepped into the restaurant, I immediately smelled the inviting aroma of cheddar cheese and butter wafting through the air. I was immediately drawn to the menu item titled “Homeroom Mac and Cheese” and couldn’t resist trying it out.
What I found when I tasted it was a creamy, cheesy bowl of comfort food that hit all the right notes for me. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, nutty Pecorino Romano cheese, buttery breadcrumbs, and creamy sauce was simply delightful!
So I searched for the recipe online and was surprised to find out that it was actually quite easy to make. With a few simple ingredients, I could recreate this delicious dish at home in no time!
Ever since then, Homeroom Mac and Cheese has become one of my favorite comfort food dishes. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want something quick, easy, and tasty.
Plus, it’s also a great way to get the whole family together in the kitchen! I’m so glad I was introduced to this delicious dish all those years ago.
It is now one of my go-to dishes when I’m looking for something delicious and comforting. Try making Homeroom Mac and Cheese at home – you won’t be disappointed!
How to make Homeroom Mac and Cheese?
Making Homeroom Mac and Cheese at home is surprisingly simple and only requires a few key ingredients. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you make the perfect dish every time:
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Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: this is the main ingredient that gives the mac and cheese its classic, chewy texture.
- All-purpose flour: this is used to thicken the sauce.
- Unsalted butter: adds flavor and richness to the sauce.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: this provides a sharp, tangy flavor as well as a creamy texture when melted.
- Kosher salt: this is used to season the dish.
- Panko: this is a Japanese-style breadcrumb and provides a crunchy topping.
- Whole milk: adds creaminess and flavor to the sauce.
- Grated Pecorino Romano cheese: this provides an extra salty, nutty flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
Boil the macaroni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add 1 pound of elbow macaroni.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente (tender but still slightly firm).
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2
Make the cheese sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and stir until combined.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Slowly add 3 cups of whole milk while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Add 4 teaspoons of kosher salt and stir.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese and mix until completely melted.
Step 3
Assemble the macaroni and cheese
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
- Pour macaroni and cheese into the greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle 2/3 cup of Panko on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- To make it even cheesier, consider adding more sharp cheddar cheese or using extra-sharp cheddar for an even more intense flavor.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, sprinkle some extra Panko on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.
Homeroom Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 Tsp kosher salt
- Kosher salt
- 2/3 cup panko
- 4 cup (1 quart) whole milk
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
Instructions
- Boil macaroni.
- Make a cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cheese
- Assemble in a greased baking dish; top with Panko and bake.
Notes
- To make it even cheesier, consider adding more sharp cheddar cheese or using extra-sharp cheddar for an even more intense flavor.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, sprinkle some extra Panko on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.
Nutrition Information
What to serve with Homeroom Mac and Cheese?
Here are some of my favorite sides to serve with Homeroom Mac and Cheese:
- Sauteed Vegetables: Add some sautéed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or cauliflower to the side for a healthy and tasty accompaniment.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with some garlic bread for an extra dose of flavor and crunch.
- Salad: Try adding a fresh green salad on the side for added nutrition.
- Roasted Chicken: For a heartier meal, add some roasted chicken or turkey to your plate.
- Bacon: Sprinkle some crispy bacon pieces over top for an extra kick of flavor and crunch!
How to store leftover Homeroom Mac and Cheese?
Cool and Store:
Before storing leftovers, cool the macaroni and cheese completely. Place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat:
To reheat leftover macaroni and cheese, place in a covered baking dish and heat at 350°F for 10 minutes or until hot. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Freeze:
To freeze leftover macaroni and cheese, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can eat Homeroom Mac and Cheese. The dish is made with ingredients that are safe for consumption during pregnancy, such as elbow macaroni, all-purpose flour, butter, milk, salt, cheddar cheese, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
However, it is important to note that the dish contains a good amount of fat and calories, so pregnant women should eat it in moderation.
For those who are concerned about their nutritional intake during pregnancy, it is best to consult a doctor or nutritionist in order to determine what foods are safe to eat and how much of each food type is recommended.
Additionally, pregnant women should prioritize eating fresh fruits and vegetables as well as lean proteins at every meal in order to ensure that they are getting the proper nutrients during pregnancy.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the macaroni and cheese up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the dish according to the instructions above and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. When ready, preheat the oven to 350°F, uncover the baking dish, and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Can I add additional ingredients to the macaroni and cheese?
Yes, feel free to get creative with your mac and cheese! Try adding cooked bacon, diced ham, mushrooms, onions, peppers, or any of your favorite vegetables. You can also incorporate different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, and Swiss for a more flavorful dish.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan-friendly, simply substitute the butter and milk with non-dairy alternatives such as coconut oil or almond milk. You can also swap out the sharp cheddar cheese and Pecorino Romano cheese for non-dairy vegan cheeses.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free alternative such as quinoa or corn pasta. Additionally, you can swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free Panko in place of the regular Panko. For best results, be sure to check the labels on all products for gluten-free certification.
Can I make this without cheese?
Yes, you can make creamy macaroni and cheese without any cheese! Instead of using dairy cheeses, try adding almond milk or coconut milk for a rich and creamy sauce. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for extra flavor.
Wrapping Up
Now you have all the tips and tricks you need to create a delicious homemade macaroni and cheese dish! Whether you choose to make it with or without cheese, this classic comfort food will be sure to satisfy your cravings.
Thank you for reading, please share this article if you found it useful! Enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more