Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

Boil Water

In a large pot, bring 4-5 cups of salted water to a rolling boil.

Cook Macaroni

Add 2 cups of macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.

Drain Pasta

Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set aside.

Melt Butter

In the same pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

Add Flour

Once melted, add 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the butter and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until it forms a roux.

Add Milk

Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Cheese and Seasonings

Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of mustard powder until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Stir the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is well coated.

Prepare Topping (optional)

If desired, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of paprika.

Bake (optional)

Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Serve hot and enjoy your creamy macaroni and cheese!