Family-Style Macaroni and Cheese

Published May 1, 2004.

Neither dull nor excessively rich, macaroni and cheese should please a multitude of palates. Could we find a simple way to make this dish appealing to adults and kids alike?

The Problem

Sure, the kids would be fine with the contents of the blue box brand, but for us this ready-mix mac and cheese lost its appeal soon after we learned how to boil water. Conversely, decadent recipes replete with cream, eggs, and a who's-who list of pungent cheeses are decidedly adults-only; just try to serve them to the kids and you'll get upturned noses and pushed-back plates.

The Goal

Simple, satisfying macaroni and cheese, as appealing to adults as it is to children.

The Solution

Cook the pasta until just past al dente and then combine with a béchamel-based cheese sauce (classically known as Mornay sauce). Use a combination of sharp cheddar for flavor and Monterey Jack for creaminess. For a crunchy topping, toss homemade bread crumbs with melted butter, sprinkle over the casserole, and brown quickly under the broiler.

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