Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese has earned its place as a beloved Southern classic known for its rich creamy texture and perfectly balanced flavors. This recipe captures the comforting essence of homemade mac and cheese while adding a unique twist that sets it apart from the ordinary. Whether you’re looking to recreate a nostalgic family favorite or impress guests with a crowd-pleasing side dish, this version delivers every time.
We love how this dish combines simple ingredients into a luscious cheesy masterpiece that’s both satisfying and easy to make. With its golden crust and gooey interior, Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into the secrets behind this iconic recipe and bring a taste of Southern comfort right to our kitchen.
Ingredients
To recreate the beloved Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese, we need to gather simple yet quality ingredients that achieve that perfect balance of creamy texture and rich flavor. Here is the breakdown to make this Southern classic just right.
Pasta Ingredients
- 1/2 pound elbow macaroni (preferably small elbow for the ideal bite)
- Water for boiling
- Salt (about 1 tablespoon) to season the pasta water
Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for a rich base)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (to thicken our cheese sauce perfectly)
- 3 cups whole milk (warmed for smooth incorporation)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded for optimal melting)
- 1 cup American cheese (adds creaminess and that signature melt)
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder (to elevate the cheesy flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz, for a golden crunchy crust)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, to bind the topping)
| Ingredient Category | Ingredients | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta | Elbow macaroni, salted water | Base of the dish |
| Cheese Sauce | Butter, flour, milk, sharp cheddar, American cheese, dry mustard, salt, pepper | Creamy, flavorful sauce |
| Topping | Crushed buttery crackers, melted butter | Crispy golden crust topping |
“The right balance of cheeses and a buttery cracker topping create the iconic texture contrast that makes Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese irresistible.”
With these ingredients on hand, we are ready to bring this Southern comfort food to our table.
Equipment Needed
To perfectly execute the Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese Recipe, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool contributes to creating the iconic creamy texture and golden crust that define this beloved Southern classic. Here’s what we’ll need to gather before we get started:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot | To boil the elbow macaroni to the ideal tenderness |
| Colander | For draining the cooked pasta quickly and thoroughly |
| Medium saucepan | To prepare the rich cheese sauce with butter, flour, and milk |
| Whisk | For smoothly blending the roux and cheese sauce without lumps |
| Oven-safe baking dish | To bake the macaroni and cheese, allowing the topping to crisp perfectly |
| Mixing spoon or spatula | To combine pasta and sauce evenly |
| Measuring cups and spoons | For precise ingredient quantities |
| Knife and cutting board | To slice or chop any additional ingredients if needed |
| Grater (optional) | For shredding sharp cheddar cheese fresh |
We find that using an oven-safe baking dish with a wider surface area helps achieve that coveted golden crust on top. The whisk ensures a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce by properly integrating the roux mixture. Remember, precision with measurements guarantees the signature balance of creamy, gooey, and crispy textures in our final dish.
With all these pieces of equipment laid out and ready, we’re set to move confidently into crafting our Southern favorite.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, let’s prepare all the components meticulously. Proper prep ensures our Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese turns out perfectly creamy with a golden crust every time.
Preparing the Pasta
- Measure 1 pound of elbow macaroni precisely.
- Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes—firm but tender.
- Drain pasta thoroughly in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.
- Do not rinse the pasta; the surface starch helps the cheese sauce cling better.
Preparing the Cheese Sauce Ingredients
We’ll assemble the ingredients so everything is within reach:
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 6 tablespoons | Cut into cubes for quicker melting |
| All-purpose flour | 6 tablespoons | Measured and sifted if needed |
| Whole milk | 3 cups | Room temperature for smooth sauce |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups shredded | Freshly shredded preferred |
| American cheese slices | 4 slices | Quartered for even melting |
| Salt | To taste | Measured for seasoning |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground preferred |
Tip: Cutting butter and shredding cheeses ahead promotes an even and smooth cheese sauce.
Prepping the Topping
Our topping will give the dish its iconic crispy, buttery crust.
- Crush 1 1/2 cups of butter crackers finely but keep slight texture.
- Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl.
- Toss crushed crackers with melted butter until fully coated.
- Set the buttery cracker topping aside until we are ready to add it before baking.
“This cracker topping adds the perfect crunch contrast to the creamy macaroni beneath.”
Directions
Follow these detailed steps to create the classic Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese with its signature creamy texture and golden crust. We’ll guide you through cooking the pasta, preparing the cheese sauce, combining everything perfectly, and finishing with the irresistible topping.
Cooking the Pasta
- Measure 1 pound of elbow macaroni precisely for the perfect batch size.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Use about 4 quarts of water and 1 tablespoon of salt for optimal seasoning.
- Add the macaroni and cook uncovered for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Aim for al dente texture to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander but do not rinse. Retain the starch on the macaroni; this helps the cheese sauce cling beautifully.
| Step | Detail | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Water quantity | 4 quarts | Ensures ample boiling space for pasta |
| Salt added | 1 tablespoon | Enhances flavor during boiling |
| Cooking time | 8 minutes | Achieves al dente firmness |
| Rinsing pasta | No | Keeps starch for sauce adherence |
Making the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of cubed butter slowly.
- Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour while whisking constantly to form a smooth roux. Let cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, to remove raw flour taste without browning.
- Gradually whisk in 4 cups of whole milk, warmed to room temperature, ensuring no lumps form.
- Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove from heat and fold in 3 cups sharp cheddar and 2 cups American cheese, freshly shredded. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and a dash of paprika or cayenne for subtle warmth.
“A well-made cheese sauce is the heart of Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese. Achieving a silky, lump-free base ensures the dish’s classic creaminess.“
Combining Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Transfer the drained pasta back into the large pot or a mixing bowl.
- Slowly pour the hot cheese sauce over the pasta while gently folding to coat every piece evenly.
- Taste for seasoning and adjust salt or pepper if needed. The sauce should cling, making each bite rich and flavorful.
Adding the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups crushed buttery crackers with 3 tablespoons melted butter. The butter should be warm but not hot to keep crackers slightly moist for crisp baking.
- Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture into an oven-safe baking dish, smoothing the surface.
- Evenly sprinkle the buttery cracker topping over the pasta.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the cheese sauce bubbles around the edges.
| Step | Detail | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Topping mixture | 1 1/2 cups crackers + 3 tbsp butter | Creates signature crunchy golden crust |
| Baking temperature | 350°F (175°C) | Perfect heat for even cooking |
| Baking time | 25-30 minutes | Melts cheese and crisps topping |
Baking Instructions
To achieve the perfect Ukrops Macaroni And Cheese with a golden crust and creamy interior, we follow these precise baking steps:
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures even cooking and a beautifully browned topping.
- Transfer to an Oven-Safe Dish
Pour the combined macaroni and cheese sauce mixture into a greased, 9×13-inch oven-safe baking dish. Use a rubber spatula to spread the mixture evenly for uniform baking.
- Add the Buttery Cracker Topping
Sprinkle the prepared buttery crushed cracker topping evenly over the surface. This layer will crisp up nicely, providing a satisfying contrast to the creamy macaroni beneath.
- Bake the Macaroni and Cheese
Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. The cheese sauce will bubble gently around the edges, and the topping should turn a rich golden brown.
- Check for Doneness
The macaroni should be heated through, and the topping should feel crisp to the touch. If you prefer an extra crispy topping, broil the dish for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Rest Before Serving
Remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly and make serving easier.
| Step | Details | Time/Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | Set oven temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Baking | Bake uncovered | 30–35 minutes |
| Optional Broil | Crisp the topping | 1–2 minutes (watch closely) |
| Rest | Let mac and cheese set | 5–10 minutes |
“Baking at the right temperature and time lock in the creamy texture while giving the topping its signature crispy, buttery crunch—key to Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese perfection.“
Following these Baking Instructions will deliver the classic balance of gooey cheese sauce and golden, crispy topping that defines this beloved Southern comfort dish.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese experience, let’s explore a variety of serving ideas that complement its rich, creamy texture and golden crust. These suggestions help us create a well-rounded meal whether for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering.
Pairing with Proteins
For a satisfying meal, pair the macaroni and cheese with proteins that balance its richness:
- Grilled or baked chicken seasoned with herbs adds a lean, savory contrast.
- Pulled pork or smoked brisket offers a smoky flavor that complements the creamy cheese sauce.
- Crispy fried catfish or baked salmon brings a Southern flair with a fresh, flaky texture.
Complementary Sides
Adding fresh or lightly cooked vegetables balances the dish’s richness:
- Steamed green beans tossed with garlic and a squeeze of lemon.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon bits for crunch and saltiness.
- A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the creaminess.
Creative Toppings and Additions
Enhance our classic recipe with optional toppings to customize flavor:
- Extra shredded sharp cheddar sprinkled just before serving for cheesy indulgence.
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley add color and fresh aroma.
- A drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
Portion Guide
For planning purposes, here’s a helpful portion guide to serve our Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese comfortably:
| Occasion | Servings per Person | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Family Dinner | 1 cup | Pair with a protein and side |
| Potluck or Buffet | ½ cup | Serve as a side with multiple dishes |
| Kids’ Meal | ¾ cup | Smaller portions for lighter appetite |
“Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese shines best when paired with contrasting textures and flavors. A touch of acidity or crispness amplifies the creamy, cheesy goodness.”
By incorporating these serving suggestions, we ensure every bite of Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese delivers a memorable, comforting Southern experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy the rich, creamy texture and classic flavors of Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese without the last-minute rush, timing and preparation are key. Here are our top make-ahead tips to ensure your dish stays delicious and bakes evenly.
1. Prepare the Macaroni and Cheese Ahead of Time
You can assemble the entire macaroni and cheese a day before baking. After combining the cooked elbow macaroni with the warm, silky cheese sauce, transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. Do not add the buttery cracker topping yet—reserve it to keep it crisp.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to bake, remove from fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- Add the cracker topping just before placing it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce in Advance
For even easier assembly, prepare the cheese sauce 1 day ahead of time.
- Whisk the roux, milk, and cheeses as usual.
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Before combining with pasta, gently reheat the cheese sauce over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain its smooth, creamy consistency.
3. Cooking and Storing the Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni al dente as directed.
- Drain but do not rinse the pasta to preserve the starch still clinging to the noodles.
- Spread the pasta on a baking sheet to cool and prevent sticking.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Reheat slightly or toss with a splash of milk or butter before mixing with cheese sauce to loosen.
| Make-Ahead Step | Preparation | Storage Duration | Reheat/Use Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Macaroni + Cheese Mixture | Combine pasta and warmed sauce | Up to 24 hours | Bring to room temp 20 min, top with crackers |
| Cheese Sauce | Fully prepared and cooled | Up to 24 hours | Reheat gently on low heat, stir well |
| Cooked Pasta | Al dente, drained, cooled | Up to 24 hours | Loosen with milk/butter before mixing |
4. Preparing the Topping
Mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter right before baking.
- This topping stays crispy and golden when added fresh.
- Avoid mixing the topping into the mac and cheese ahead of time, which may cause sogginess.
5. Baking from Refrigerated
Bake the assembled dish uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes if chilled. You may need to add 5–10 extra minutes to ensure the cheese sauce bubbles and the topping crisps fully.
Tip: Letting the assembled dish rest at room temperature before baking helps the cooking time remain consistent and the casserole bake evenly.
By following these make-ahead tips we can enjoy the full rich flavor and perfect texture of our Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese with less stress during mealtime.
Conclusion
Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its perfect blend of creamy cheese and crispy topping, it’s a recipe that’s both approachable and impressive.
By mastering each step and paying attention to the details, we can recreate this Southern classic with confidence. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in our homes.
Let’s embrace the joy of making and sharing this timeless recipe, savoring every bite of that rich, cheesy goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese unique compared to other recipes?
Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese stands out for its creamy cheese sauce balanced with a crispy buttery cracker topping, combining a gooey interior with a golden crust. Its blend of sharp cheddar and American cheese creates a rich, nostalgic Southern flavor.
What are the key ingredients needed to make Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese?
The key ingredients include elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, sharp cheddar cheese, American cheese, and crushed buttery crackers for the topping. Each contributes to the recipe’s creamy texture and crispy finish.
What equipment do I need to prepare this dish?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander, a medium saucepan, a whisk, and an oven-safe baking dish with a wide surface area for even baking and a golden crust.
How should I cook the pasta for the best results?
Cook elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes, then drain without rinsing to keep the starch that helps the cheese sauce stick to the pasta.
How is the cheese sauce prepared?
Melt butter, whisk in flour to create a roux, gradually add milk while stirring, then melt in shredded sharp cheddar and American cheese until smooth and creamy.
How do I make the crispy topping for Ukrops Mac and Cheese?
Crush buttery crackers and mix them with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese before baking to create a deliciously crisp contrast.
What are the baking instructions for this recipe?
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the macaroni mixture in a greased baking dish, add the cracker topping, and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden. Optionally, broil 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness.
Can Ukrops Macaroni and Cheese be made ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish without the topping a day ahead, refrigerate, bring to room temperature before baking, and add the fresh topping then. You can also make and reheat the cheese sauce separately.
What are some good serving suggestions to pair with this dish?
Serve alongside grilled chicken, pulled pork, or baked salmon, with sides like steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad. Add fresh herbs or hot sauce for extra flavor.
How much should I prepare per person?
Plan for about 1 cup of macaroni and cheese per person. Adjust servings based on the appetite of guests and whether it’s a main dish or a side.