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Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese for Comforting Cozy Nights

This beloved classic features a rich, velvety cheese sauce enveloping tender pasta, making it ideal for weeknight meals or cozy family gatherings.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Whisk
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Baking Dish

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Or your favorite pasta shape.

Cheese

  • 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Opt for high-quality cheese for the best results.
  • 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese Adds creaminess to the dish.

Dairy

  • 2 cups Whole Milk Essential for a rich and creamy cheese sauce.

Butter

  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness to the sauce.

Flour

  • ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour Key for thickening the cheese sauce.

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon Freshly Cracked Black Pepper Adds a subtle kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder Elevates the flavor profile.

Topping

  • ½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs Optional for topping.

Instructions

  • 1. Boil water in a large pot with a pinch of salt. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
  • 2. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse.
  • 3. In the same pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
  • 4. Add ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to the melted butter, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes until golden.
  • 5. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking constantly until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  • 6. Reduce heat to low and add 2 cups of shredded cheddar and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted.
  • 7. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of mustard powder.
  • 8. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat.
  • 9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
  • 10. Sprinkle ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs on top and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  • 11. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Consider adding sautéed vegetables or proteins for variations. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.