John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese

John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, indulgent dish that elevates any gathering or cozy night in. This recipe combines rich cheeses with a velvety texture, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or festive celebrations. Its unique blend of flavors and the comforting nature of macaroni and cheese are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of extra-sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this crowd-pleaser effortlessly.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish, this macaroni and cheese fits seamlessly into any meal.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving, saving time on busy days.
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe brings nostalgic warmth that makes everyone feel at home.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools is key to making John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese successfully. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• 9-by-13-inch glass baking dish
• Large pot
• Medium mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Grater

Why These Tools Matter

• 9-by-13-inch glass baking dish: Ideal for even cooking and easy serving.
• Large pot: Perfect for boiling pasta to al dente perfection.
• Whisk: Ensures your milk mixture is perfectly smooth and well-combined.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for baking dish
• 3 cups elbow macaroni

For the Creamy Mixture

• 2 (12-ounce each) cans evaporated milk
• 1/3 cup skim milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Cheesy Layer

• 2 (8-ounce each) packages extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 (8-ounce each) package Monterey Jack cheese, grated
• Paprika, for sprinkling
• Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper

How to Make John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Generously butter a 9-by-13-inch glass baking dish and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions.

1. Drain the macaroni.
2. Return it to the pot.
3. Add butter to the hot macaroni and toss until melted; set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, skim milk, and eggs.

1. Add seasoned salt, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of coarse salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper into the mixture.
2. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Combine Cheeses

In another medium bowl, combine both types of grated cheese.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Layer the ingredients in your prepared baking dish:

1. Place 1/3 of the cooked macaroni in an even layer at the bottom.
2. Cover with 1/3 of the cheese mixture.
3. Repeat these layers until all macaroni and cheese are used up.

Step 6: Pour Milk Mixture Over Layers

Pour your milk mixture evenly over all layers in the baking dish, ensuring everything is well coated. Sprinkle paprika on top for added flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven until the top layer is lightly browned, about 35 to 45 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Let stand for 10 to 15 minutes before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese!

How to Serve John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese

John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or special celebration, there are many ways to present this dish to enhance its flavors.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese offers a refreshing contrast.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and vinaigrette balances the richness of the macaroni.

Serve with Grilled Chicken

• Herb-Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken seasoned with herbs adds protein and complements the mac and cheese beautifully.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken: This zesty option brightens up the meal while adding savory flavors.

Add Some Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, providing a nice crunch alongside the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil elevates the meal’s presentation and flavor profile.

How to Perfect John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese

Perfecting John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure your macaroni is always a hit.

• Use High-Quality Cheese: Opt for premium brands of cheddar and Monterey Jack for richer flavors.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps prevent mushy macaroni after baking; follow package instructions carefully.
• Layer Generously: Make sure to layer the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly for even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit before serving; this helps it set up nicely for easier serving.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs for an extra flavor kick.

Best Side Dishes for John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options that work beautifully together.

1. Seasoned Green Beans: Lightly sautéed with garlic and olive oil, these beans offer a crisp texture.
2. Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread brushed with garlic butter makes a perfect accompaniment for scooping up cheesy goodness.
3. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness provides a nice contrast while being nutritious.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw brings brightness to the plate, balancing out the richness of the macaroni.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and fun to any meal setting.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa add both nutrition and visual appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the buttering step: Not buttering the baking dish can cause your dish to stick, making serving a hassle. Always generously butter the dish before adding any ingredients.
• Overcooking the macaroni: Cooking macaroni until it’s mushy will ruin the texture of your dish. Follow package instructions closely and cook until al dente.
• Not measuring cheese properly: Using too little or too much cheese can alter the flavor and creaminess. Measure your cheese carefully for the best results.
• Rushing the resting time: Cutting into your macaroni and cheese right away can lead to a soupy mess. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s taste buds are different. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
• Allow the macaroni to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese special?

John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. The combination of extra-sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese creates a unique taste that stands out.

Can I customize John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or even mix in proteins such as chicken or turkey for a heartier meal.

How do I know when my macaroni and cheese is done baking?

The top should be lightly browned, which usually takes about 35-45 minutes at 375°F. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor, making it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Conclusion

John Legend’s Macaroni and Cheese is not just a side dish; it’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and rich cheesiness, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more personal touch!