Description
Classic macaroni and cheese delivers creamy comfort straight from your kitchen. Cheddar-rich sauce coats tender pasta, offering a simple yet satisfying meal that connects families around the dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (120 milliliters)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (57 grams)
Thickening Agents:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil macaroni in salted water for 8-9 minutes until al dente, then thoroughly drain in a colander.
- Melt butter in a spacious saucepan over medium heat until it becomes frothy and slightly golden.
- Sprinkle flour into the melted butter, whisking vigorously to create a smooth, pale blonde roux.
- Pour milk slowly into the roux, continuing to whisk constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a silky texture.
- Incorporate garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded cheese, stirring until completely melted and creating a glossy, velvety sauce.
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, gently turning to coat each pasta piece thoroughly.
- Allow mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting flavors meld and sauce thicken slightly.
- Remove from heat and let stand for one minute before serving hot, ensuring a creamy, luxurious consistency.
Notes
- Customize the cheese blend by mixing sharp cheddar with gruyère or monterey jack for a more complex flavor profile.
- Prevent grainy texture by using room temperature cheese and adding it gradually while stirring continuously.
- Keep extra milk nearby to adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick during cooking.
- Boost nutritional value by stirring in roasted cauliflower or steamed broccoli florets for added vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg