Mac N Cheese Recipe
Classic. Creamy. Cheesy.
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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 rolling boil.
- 2
Cook Macaroni
Add elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 4
- 5
Make Roux
Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and golden, forming a roux.
- 6
Add Milk
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- 7
Add Cheeses and Seasoning
Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- 8
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to combine, ensuring all the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.
Baking (Optional)
- 9
Preheat Oven
If you choose to bake your mac and cheese, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 10
Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese.
- 11
Assemble and Bake
Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Serving
- 12
Serve Hot
Remove from oven (if baked) and let cool for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy mac n cheese!
