Classic Macaroni and Cheese
Cook
10 mins
Prep Time
5 mins
Total Time
15 mins
Serves
6
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a touch of flavor and color)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for topping)
Kitchen Tools Needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Large pot
- Baking dish (if baking with breadcrumbs)
- Spatula
Steps
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux (paste), making sure it doesn’t brown.
- Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella (if using), and Dijon mustard (optional). Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Combine with the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. If you prefer creamy stovetop macaroni and cheese, you can serve it now as is.
- Optional: Bake with Breadcrumbs: If you want a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and mix with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy as a side dish or main course.
Macros:
Total Calories: 350
Carbs: 35g
Proteins: 14g
Fats: 18g