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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping (optional)
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat.
- 2
Cook Pasta
Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until al dente.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 4
- 5
Add Flour
Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
- 6
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to stir until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- 7
Add Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- 8
Season Sauce
Add salt, black pepper, and mustard powder to the cheese sauce and mix well.
Combining
- 9
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
- 10
Prepare Topping (optional)
If using, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika in a small bowl.
- 11
Serve or Bake
You can serve the mac and cheese immediately or pour it into a baking dish, sprinkle the topping on, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.
