Mac & Cheese Recipe
Creamy macaroni and cheese.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping (optional)
Method
Cooking the Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- 2
Cook Elbow Macaroni
Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 4
- 5
Add Flour
Once the butter is melted, add 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- 6
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- 7
Add Cheese and Seasonings
Reduce heat to low and add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 0.5 teaspoon of paprika. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combining
- 8
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Optional Topping
- 9
Prepare Topping
If using, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix 0.5 cups of breadcrumbs, 0.25 cups of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
- 10
Add Topping
Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the top.
- 11
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
Serving
- 12
Serve
Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy macaroni and cheese!
