Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy mac and cheese recipe. Each bite delivers a rich, cheesy flavor that warms the soul and brings back cherished memories. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this dish is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your favorite ingredients like crispy bacon or sautéed vegetables, you’re guaranteed a delightful experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz elbow macaroni
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth and golden (about 1 minute).
Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and mix in cheddar cheese until melted.
Combine cooked pasta with cheese sauce, stirring well. If too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time.
Season with salt and pepper to taste; bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes if adding a crunchy topping.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 400
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or spices like garlic powder. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.