Description
A deliciously creamy and cheesy macaroni dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, then slowly add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy macaroni and cheese to a serving dish and garnish with additional grated cheese or black pepper if desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a mix of cheeses such as Gruyère or parmesan along with cheddar.
- If you like a crispy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.
- For added spice, include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the cheese sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg