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Mac and Cheese

Creamy homemade mac and cheese made with tender pasta and a rich cheddar cheese sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Mac and Cheese Base
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
Optional Topping
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish

Method
 

  1. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until the sauce thickens.
  4. Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese and stir until fully melted.
  5. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper.
  6. Mix cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  7. Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs if desired, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes.
  8. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce and best flavor.