Mac And Cheese Recipe
Creamy macaroni and cheese.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping (optional)
Method
Cook the Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- 2
Cook Macaroni
Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Make Cheese Sauce
- 4
- 5
Add Flour
Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, forming a roux.
- 6
Add Milk
Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- 7
Add Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- 8
Season
Add salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste, stirring to combine.
Combine and Serve
- 9
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to combine and coat the pasta.
- 10
Prepare Optional Topping
If using, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
- 11
Serve or Bake
For a baked version, transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumb mixture on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden brown. Otherwise, serve immediately.
