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J Alexander's MAC and Cheese Recipe

J Alexander's MAC and Cheese Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, creamy, and perfectly baked mac and cheese, then you’re in for a treat with J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese Recipe. This dish is more than just your average comfort food; it’s a decadent, flavorful masterpiece that combines three different cheeses for the ultimate gooey experience.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 42 minutes
Total Time 52 minutes
Servings: 2 People
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cheddar cheese
  • ¾ cup Gruyère cheese
  • ¾ cup mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups Cavatappi macaroni or Elbow macaroni
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • ¾ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Cheese Grater

Method
 

  1. Preheat & Prepare Cheese - Preheat your oven to 365°F. In a bowl, combine cheddar, Gruyere, and mozzarella cheese. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta - Boil 5 cups of water in a large pot. Add 1 tsp of salt and cook pasta until al dente (about 10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce Base - In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until combined.
  4. Add Milk & Seasonings - Slowly add milk while whisking. Cook for 10 minutes until the mixture thickens. Stir in nutmeg, remaining salt, and black pepper.
  5. Incorporate Cheese - Gradually add 3/4 of the cheese mixture to the sauce, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
  6. Combine Pasta & Sauce - Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well.
  7. Bake the Dish - Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  8. Serve & Enjoy - Allow it to cool slightly before serving for the perfect texture.

Notes

  • Use Freshly Grated Cheese - Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that affect melting.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta - Slightly undercooked pasta absorbs the sauce better.
  • Layer the Cheese Gradually - Helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Customize It - Add shrimp, mushrooms, or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
  • Let It Rest Before Serving - This allows the sauce to set and enhances the texture.