Indulge in the creamy and comforting world of macaroni and cheese with Patti LaBelle’s renowned recipe. This delightful dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of rich flavors and velvety textures makes it a beloved classic among food enthusiasts. Below, you will find a complete guide to making this irresistible macaroni and cheese from scratch, including the necessary ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni and Cheese
This recipe highlights the perfect balance of cheeses, ensuring a flavorful and cheesy experience with every bite. Here’s how to create this comforting dish:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Additional cheddar cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until it’s golden. This creates a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Once thickened, stir in the salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and mustard powder.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until thoroughly combined.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs and additional cheese on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy goodness of Patti LaBelle’s macaroni and cheese!
Whether served as a main dish or as a side, this macaroni and cheese recipe is bound to impress your family and friends. The combination of flavors is sure to create a lasting impression around the dinner table. Enjoy your culinary creation!