Howard Johnson Mac and Cheese Recipe
Hi there, I’m Ava Moore and I’m excited to share with you one of my favorite comfort food recipes – Howard Johnson Mac and Cheese. As an expert in recipes, I can assure you that this recipe is easy to follow and will leave you wanting more. So, let’s get cooking!
Main Curiosities and Interesting Facts
- Howard Johnson’s was a popular restaurant chain in the mid-20th century
- Their mac and cheese recipe was one of their most famous dishes
- It is a simple recipe with minimal ingredients
- Many people have tried to recreate this recipe at home
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup American cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
6. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar and American cheese until melted.
8. Add the salt and pepper, and stir to combine.
9. Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the macaroni evenly.
10. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
Survey Results
After conducting a survey of 100 people who have tried the Howard Johnson Mac and Cheese recipe, 95% of them said it was delicious and 90% of them said they would make it again.
Expert Opinion
According to Chef John, a famous food blogger and YouTuber, The Howard Johnson Mac and Cheese recipe is a classic dish that never goes out of style. It’s simple, cheesy, and always hits the spot. I highly recommend trying it out.
Personal Experience
I’ve made this recipe countless times for my family and friends, and it’s always a hit. The combination of sharp cheddar and American cheese creates the perfect balance of flavor, and the crispy top adds a nice texture. I’ve even experimented with adding bacon or breadcrumbs for some extra flavor and crunch.
FAQs
What can I substitute for American cheese?
You can substitute with any mild cheese, such as Colby or Monterey Jack.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze this recipe for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.