MAC AND CHEESE
Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and comforting. Made with tender pasta and rich cheese sauce, it’s a perfect side dish or main for lunch, dinner, or parties.
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder optional
Instructions
Cook Pasta:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make Roux:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
Prepare Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in milk, cook until thickened. Add salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
Combine Pasta and Cheese:
- Stir in shredded cheddar until melted. Combine with cooked macaroni.
Serve:
- Serve warm as a comforting side or main dish.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare cheese sauce and pasta separately; combine and heat before serving.
- Variations: Add cooked bacon, broccoli, or different cheeses for extra flavor.
- Baking Option: Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 15 minutes for a crispy top.
- Serving: Serve as a main or side dish for family meals or parties.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stove or microwave.