sunny anderson mac and cheese

A Deliciously Simple Mac and Cheese Recipe from Sunny Anderson

Mac and cheese is a classic American comfort food that's loved by both children and adults. It's easy to make and sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Sunny Anderson, host of the Food Network's Cooking for Real, has created a delicious mac and cheese recipe that's sure to be a hit. This creamy and cheesy dish is easy to prepare and can be adjusted to fit any dietary needs or personal preferences.

Ingredients

This mac and cheese recipe calls for just a few simple ingredients, all of which can be found at your local grocery store. You'll need:

1 pound of elbow macaroni
3 tablespoons of butter
3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
1 cup of milk
2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

This mac and cheese recipe is easy to prepare and ready to eat in just 40 minutes. Here's how to do it:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper and stir until combined. Gradually add the milk and whisk until smooth. Reduce the heat to low and continue to stir until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Drain the cooked macaroni and return to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir until combined. Pour the mac and cheese into the baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cheese is best for mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar cheese is the best choice for mac and cheese, as it gives the dish a rich, creamy flavor. However, you can also use other types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Gouda.

How do I store leftover mac and cheese?

Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish and bake in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, mac and cheese can be frozen for up to three months. Place the mac and cheese in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag and freeze. To reheat, place the frozen mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish and bake in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 20-30 minutes or until heated through.

Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can make mac and cheese ahead of time. Prepare the mac and cheese as directed, then cover and refrigerate for up to two days before baking. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

Can I use other types of pasta for mac and cheese?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta for mac and cheese. Elbow macaroni is the most common, but you can also use shells, penne, rotini, or any other small pasta.