Description
Creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting, this mac and cheese recipe is a timeless classic that delights both kids and adults alike. With tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, each bite takes you back to cozy family dinners or carefree childhood days. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to festive gatherings. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that warms the heart. Feel free to customize your mac and cheese by adding crispy bacon, sautéed vegetables, or experimenting with different cheeses for a unique twist on this beloved comfort food.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni
- Sharp cheddar cheese
- Whole milk
- Unsalted butter
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain without rinsing.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour until smooth. Cook for about one minute.
- Gradually add milk while whisking constantly until thickened (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in grated cheddar until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well-coated. Optionally transfer to a greased baking dish and broil for 3-5 minutes for a crispy top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Experiment with mixing different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for added flavor. Incorporate sautéed vegetables or crispy bacon for extra texture. To make ahead of time, assemble without baking and refrigerate; add extra baking time if cooking directly from the fridge.