Description
Creamy macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food classic that has been delighting taste buds for generations. This rich and indulgent dish is the epitome of cozy, satisfying goodness – a perfect blend of tender pasta, velvety cheese sauce, and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
1. To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions, stirring occasionally, until it’s al dente – usually around 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper. Cook this roux for 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
3. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Continue whisking as the mixture comes to a gentle bubble and thickens slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir constantly until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce is silky smooth.
5. Once the cheese sauce is ready, add the cooked macaroni and toss everything together until every piece is evenly coated. Allow the mixture to sit for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Optional seasonings can add warmth and complexity. Consider adding cooked bacon, pulled pork, or grilled chicken for a heartier version. You can also mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 100mg