Mac and Cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni: Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until bubbly but not browned. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the Cheese: Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the thickened milk mixture. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
5. Optional Baking Step: If you prefer baked mac and cheese, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan, and paprika or cayenne pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the mac and cheese.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you like a crispier top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Serve: Once baked, let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a main dish or a delightful side!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic mac and cheese is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. This recipe is easy to customize—add cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, sautéed vegetables, or your favorite proteins to make it your own.

It’s also perfect for meal prep. You can prepare a big batch and store leftovers in the refrigerator for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Reheat it in the oven or microwave for a comforting meal that tastes just as good as the day it was made.

Final Thoughts

Mac and cheese is a dish that transcends generations, evoking warm memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. Its creamy, cheesy goodness is beloved by people of all ages, making it a timeless favorite. With this classic mac and cheese recipe, you can enjoy a bowl of nostalgia that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. So gather your ingredients, and indulge in this comforting classic today!