Cooking Up the Ultimate Lubys Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese enthusiasts everywhere! If you're a fan of sturdy, creamy, and comforting Lubys Mac and Cheese, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to recreate this beloved dish at home, ensuring every bite brings back the cherished memories. Let's get started!

Ingredients Needed

Freshly cooked mac and cheese is a testament to its simplicity and robust flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups (8 ounces) dry elbow macaroni 4 tablespoons nonfat dry milk 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon butter or margarine melted 1 cup boiling water 3 cups (12 ounces) shredded American cheese found at the deli counter 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Step-by-Step Guide

Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create the perfect Lubys Mac and Cheese!

Boil the Macaroni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 2 cups of dry elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente.

Prepare the Custard

In a separate saucepan, whisk together the nonfat dry milk, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Gradually pour in the 1 cup of boiling water, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once the mixture is smooth, continue to simmer for about 2 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter.

Shred the Cheese

Patience is key here. Using a microplane or a box grater, carefully shred the 3 cups of American cheese from the deli counter. Coarse shredding works best to resemble the texture of store-bought mac and cheese. Set it aside.

Mix it All Together

Add the shredded cheese to the cheese sauce and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Combine and Cook

Drain the cooked macaroni and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni, mixing everything together until the macaroni is well-coated.

Final Touches

Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and if desired, top it off with a sprinkle of additional shredded cheese and a drizzle of melted butter before baking at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Tips and Variations

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, why not add some personal flair? Here are a few creative additions to refine your Lubys Mac and Cheese: Add-ins: Feel adventurous? Add diced cooked bacon, chopped broccoli, or mini-Italian sausage for a burst of flavor and texture. Sliders: Serve your mac and cheese in mini-buns or slider buns for a delicious meal on the go. Finger Food: Create a robust finger food platter by serving this mac and cheese with crusty bread or crackers.

Conclusion

Creating Lubys Mac and Cheese at home is more than just a culinary endeavor; it's a way to share authentic comfort and warmth. With just a few simple ingredients and a few steps, you can recreate the beloved recipe that has captured the hearts of so many. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice, this mac and cheese is sure to be a cherished family recipe. So, get your pots and pans ready and start cooking up a storm!

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