Description
A warm and comforting classic mac and cheese recipe with a rich and creamy cheese sauce that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Whisk in the milk gradually. Bring to a boil, stirring often. Reduce heat and add the shredded cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat.
- If desired, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For a creamier sauce, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. Add extras like cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, comfort food, creamy pasta