Description
Mac and Cheese is the quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dining table. This creamy dish features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce made from rich sharp cheddar, creating an indulgent experience in every bite. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, this recipe balances creaminess and texture perfectly. Ideal for cozy nights at home or casual gatherings with friends, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a side or the centerpiece of your meal, this Mac and Cheese is sure to become a family favorite that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot; cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter; whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Gradually add milk while whisking; continue until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in melted cheddar cheese; season with salt and pepper.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well-coated.
- For added crunch, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg