Creamy Mac and Cheese
Creamy Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender pasta enveloped in a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Traditional choice for Mac and Cheese.
Sauce Base
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter For creating a rich base.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Used to create a roux.
- 2 cups Whole Milk Recommended for creaminess.
Cheese
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded Adds robust flavor.
- 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded Melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder Infuses sauce with garlic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Mustard Powder Optional, adds tangy depth.
Topping
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Optional for a crunchy topping.
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- 2. Prepare the Roux: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, whisking for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- 3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in milk while whisking. Cook until thickened and bubbling, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4. Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low, add cheddar and Monterey Jack, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- 5. Season the Sauce: Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- 6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat well.
- 7. Transfer and Top: If desired, transfer to a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- 8. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
- 9. Serve: Let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to customize with different cheeses or add-ins like vegetables or proteins.