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Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and Cheese

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy and comforting classic macaroni and cheese featuring elbow pasta coated in a rich, sharp cheddar cheese sauce. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, this versatile dish can be served stovetop or baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, and customizable with various cheese blends, veggies, or spice additions.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk (preferably warmed)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping if baking)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside. The pasta should be firm but tender to hold up under the creamy sauce.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for about a minute to form a roux. Slowly add warmed milk while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.
  3. Add the Cheese: Remove sauce from heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and mix gently until every noodle is coated thoroughly with the cheesy sauce.
  5. Optional Baking: Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly for a crispy crusted finish.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more flavorful sauce.
  • Warm the milk before adding to prevent lumps.
  • Do not overcook pasta; undercook slightly for best texture after baking.
  • Whisk constantly during sauce preparation to ensure smoothness.
  • Experiment with different cheese blends for customized flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop and Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, comfort food, creamy cheese sauce, baked mac and cheese, sharp cheddar macaroni

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Find it online: https://dishesbyme.com/macaroni-and-cheese/