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Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese
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Creamy, cheesy, and comforting Mac and Cheese made with tender elbow macaroni and a rich cheese sauce featuring sharp cheddar and Parmesan. This classic dish is simple to prepare, versatile to customize, and perfect for any meal or occasion. Enjoy it baked with a crunchy breadcrumb topping or stovetop for quick creaminess.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni pasta

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk (preferably whole milk)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Topping (Optional)

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux Base: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  3. Add Milk and Thicken: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens smoothly and starts to bubble gently. This usually takes 5-7 minutes on medium heat.
  4. Melt in the Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy. Add Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for flavor balance.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is coated in delicious cheesiness. At this point, you can transfer to a baking dish if you want a crispy breadcrumb topping.
  6. Bake (Optional): Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly on top. Otherwise, serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use real cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and a smoother sauce.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercook to prevent mushiness when baked.
  • Stir constantly while making the roux and sauce to avoid lumps.
  • Customize cheeses by mixing cheddar with mozzarella, gouda, or fontina for unique flavors.
  • Let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow the sauce to thicken to perfect creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food, Cheesy Pasta, Classic Macaroni and Cheese, Family Dinner, Easy Mac and Cheese

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/mac-and-cheese/