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Homemade Mac and Cheese

Homemade Mac and Cheese
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Discover the creamy, cheesy goodness of homemade mac and cheese with this easy, comforting recipe. Featuring tender elbow macaroni combined with a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and parmesan, this classic dish is perfect for family dinners or a quick weeknight treat. Simple to make with pantry staples, customizable, and budget-friendly, it’s a timeless comfort food everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour/cornstarch for gluten-free version)
  • 3 cups milk (or plant-based milk for dairy-free)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

Optional Toppings and Mix-ins

  • Breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter (for crispy topping)
  • Cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños (for spicy kick)
  • Steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers (for veggie boost)
  • Mozzarella or gouda cheese (for extra cheesiness)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente—firm yet tender. Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
  2. Make the Roux: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s light golden and bubbling to thicken the sauce perfectly.
  3. Add Milk and Thicken: Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk, ensuring no lumps form. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring often, until it thickens into a creamy base for your cheese sauce.
  4. Stir in the Cheese: Remove from heat and add shredded sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese, stirring until everything melts and the sauce becomes luxuriously smooth and velvety.
  5. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Toss the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing well so every noodle is coated with the rich, creamy goodness.
  6. Serve or Bake: Serve immediately for the creamiest texture, or transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for a golden, crispy topping.

Notes

  • Use fresh cheese: Always grate cheese yourself for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
  • Don’t overcook pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta since it will cook more when baked or mixed with hot sauce.
  • Low and slow: Keep heat medium or low to prevent sauce curdling or burning.
  • Season well: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before mixing pasta.
  • Add a little mustard: A pinch of dry mustard powder boosts cheese flavor without overpowering.

Nutrition

Keywords: homemade mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, easy mac and cheese, creamy cheese sauce, family dinner

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/homemade-mac-and-cheese/