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Classic Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in this creamy and cheesy macaroni and cheese, a beloved comfort food that has warmed hearts and homes for generations. This dish beautifully combines al dente elbow macaroni with a rich and velvety cheese sauce, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Often referred to as 'mac and cheese,' this timeless recipe has roots dating back to the 1700s, making it a staple in American households. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for endless creativity—add crispy bacon for a savory crunch, sautéed vegetables for a nutritious boost, or a golden breadcrumb topping for an irresistible crunch. It’s the perfect dish for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni
- 2 cups
- Unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup
- Milk
- 2 cups, whole milk preferred
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups
- Salt
- 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon
- Breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 cup, for topping
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
- 1/2 cup, for topping
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour, whisking until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously as the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika, adjusting to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
- For a crispy topping, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese if using, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Tips
- For additional flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
- Feel free to use a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a more complex flavor.
- Customize with your favorite add-ins like cooked broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or crumbled bacon.
Dietary Information
Servings: 6 Dish Type: Main Dish Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Calories: 450 Fat: 25g Carbs: 45g Protein: 18g Sodium: 750mg Sugar: 6g
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