Description
Indulge in this creamy macaroni and cheese, a comforting classic that combines the richness of cheeses and a smooth, velvety sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard or garlic powder (optional)
- Extra cheese for topping
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth, lightly golden roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and cream. Simmer 4-5 minutes until thickened. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Transfer to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Sprinkle extra cheddar and parmesan over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crisp golden top.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle.
Notes
- This recipe can be customized with different cheeses or by adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg