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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Toppings (optional)
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- 2
Cook Macaroni
Add elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 3
- 4
Add Flour
Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
- 5
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- 6
Add Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese until fully melted and combined.
- 7
Season Sauce
Add salt, black pepper, and paprika to the cheese sauce, stirring well.
Combining Ingredients
- 8
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.
- 9
Prepare for Baking (optional)
If using, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Baking (optional)
- 10
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Serving
- 11
Serve
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve hot.