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Creamy homemade mac and cheese

Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese

This creamy homemade mac and cheese features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and mozzarella.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Baking dish (if baking)
  • oven mitts
  • Knife (optional)

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 Tbsp Butter
  • 2 Tbsp All-purpose flour
  • 2 cups Milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp Mustard powder (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 Cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 Cup Shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese of your choice)

Optional Toppings:

  • 1/2 Cup Breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)
  • 2 Tbsp Melted butter (to mix with breadcrumbs)
  • 1/4 Cup Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

  • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden (this creates a roux).
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper.

Add the Cheese:

  • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

  • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.

Optional Baking:

  • If you prefer a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
  • In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
  • If using, add grated Parmesan cheese on top of the breadcrumbs.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Serve:

  • Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy homemade mac and cheese!

Tips:

  • Feel free to customize with add-ins like cooked bacon, broccoli, or diced tomatoes.
  • For extra creaminess, you can stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream.
Keyword Baked mac and cheese, dinner recipe, homemade, Quick dinner