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Creamy Mac and Cheese

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This mac and cheese features tender pasta coated in a creamy, velvety cheese sauce. It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to please kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
  • 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups (1 liter) whole milk (or a mix of milk and heavy cream)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups (300 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the roux:
    • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
  3. Add the milk:
    • Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Season and add cheese:
    • Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar, mozzarella (or Gruyère), and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
  5. Combine with pasta:
    • Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
  6. Optional: Bake for a crispy topping:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs or extra cheese, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve hot and enjoy! Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.

Notes

  • Cheese options: Mix and match cheeses like Monterey Jack, Havarti, or pepper jack for different flavors.
  • Make it extra creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the sauce.
  • Add-ins: Try mixing in cooked bacon, diced ham, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier dish.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/creamy-mac-and-cheese/