Description
This quick and creamy Mac and Cheese recipe is a comforting classic perfect for any meal. Featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a luscious cheddar cheese sauce, it’s easy to make, customizable, budget-friendly, and beloved by all ages. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend feasts.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free version)
- 2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free milk for dairy-free option)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking and maintain perfect texture.
- Make the Roux: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to form a roux, which provides a creamy thickness to the sauce.
- Add Milk and Thicken: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring and cooking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder for an extra flavor boost.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated luxuriously. Serve immediately for optimal creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and texture.
- Do not overcook the pasta; it should be slightly underdone as it finishes cooking in the sauce.
- Pour milk gradually while whisking to prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Customize your cheese blend for added complexity and richness.
- For a baked version, top with breadcrumbs and broil until golden and crispy.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg