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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping (optional)
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Cook the macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 2
- 3
Add milk
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
- 4
Add cheese
Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese to the saucepan. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder.
Combining and Serving
- 5
Combine pasta and sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.
- 6
Prepare optional topping
If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
- 7
Bake (optional)
Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden brown.
- 8
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired.
