Description
This ultimate mac and cheese recipe delivers creamy, cheesy comfort in every bite. Make it from scratch for an unforgettable experience!
Ingredients
Scale
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- 1 (8 ounce) box elbow macaroni
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- ¼ cup butter (½ stick)
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- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
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- ½ teaspoon salt
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- Ground black pepper to taste
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- 2 cups milk
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- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
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- Ingredient Note: Feel free to use different types of cheese! Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of sharp cheddar can add amazing flavor. For a creamier texture, use whole milk.
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- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
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- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, until al dente.
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- Drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
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- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
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- Whisk in the flour until smooth. This mixture is called a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
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- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps.
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- Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
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- Remove from heat and stir in the salt and pepper.
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- Add the shredded Cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
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- Serve immediately, and enjoy!
Notes
For an even creamier mac and cheese, use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, cheese sauce, comfort food, cheddar cheese