Description
Mac and cheese is the quintessential comfort food that combines creamy cheese and perfectly cooked pasta for a deliciously nostalgic experience. This recipe is simple yet flavorful, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. With a smooth, cheesy sauce enveloping every bite, it’s sure to be a hit with even the pickiest eaters. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, like crispy bacon or sautéed vegetables, to create your perfect dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until golden to create a roux.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously. Cook until thickened, then stir in cheddar until melted.
- Combine: Drain the pasta and mix it into the cheese sauce until well-coated.
- Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until golden.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 60mg