Description
A heartwarming and classic dish that combines rich, cheesy flavor with a creamy texture, perfect for family dinners and quick meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of paprika or mustard powder (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the roux. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Make the cheese sauce. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking, and cook for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
- Add the cheese. Lower the heat, add shredded cheddar and Parmesan (if using), then stir until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Combine with pasta. Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well-coated.
- Optional baked version: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Notes
Perfect for lunch or dinner, can serve as a side or main dish. Customize by adding vegetables or proteins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: macaroni and cheese, comfort food, easy recipes, baked mac and cheese, creamy pasta