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John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 82 reviews

John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish made with elbow macaroni, evaporated milk, two types of sharp cheeses, and seasoned with garlic powder and paprika. This recipe creates a rich, flavorful baked macaroni and cheese perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Sauce Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing baking dish
  • 2 (12-ounce) cans evaporated milk
  • ⅓ cup skim milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 (8-ounce) packages extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1 (8-ounce) package Monterey Jack cheese, grated

Pasta Ingredients

  • 3 cups elbow macaroni
  • Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish

  • Paprika, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a large baking dish generously to prevent sticking and prepare it for the macaroni and cheese.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  3. Make the cheese sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, skim milk, eggs, seasoned salt, and garlic powder until fully combined. Gradually stir in the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, leaving a small amount of cheese to sprinkle on top.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat all the pasta with the cheesy sauce. Season with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Assemble in baking dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared buttered baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly over the top.
  6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown, bubbling, and the sauce is set.
  7. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle paprika over the top for color and extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a creamier texture, you can substitute part of the evaporated milk with whole milk or cream.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor results, avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents.
  • Seasoned salt can be substituted with regular salt and a pinch of smoked paprika or onion powder if desired.
  • Allow the baked macaroni and cheese to cool slightly before serving to help it set and improve texture.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, baked mac and cheese, John Legend recipe, cheesy pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://mjrecipe.com/john-legends-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe/