Mac and Cheese Recipe – Creamy and Cheesy

Macaroni and cheese is a delicious and classic comfort food that’s loved by many. Here’s a detailed recipe for making a creamy and cheesy mac and cheese:

Ingredients:

– 8 ounces (about 2 1/2 cups) elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
– 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
– 2 cups whole milk (you can use 2% milk for a lighter version)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, but adds a nice flavor)
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish or a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to get rid of the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually add the milk: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth and creamy. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the seasonings: Once the sauce is smooth, add the salt, black pepper, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to incorporate the seasonings into the sauce.
6. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
8. Transfer to the baking dish: Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Add the breadcrumb topping (optional): If you want a crunchy topping, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs over the macaroni and cheese.
10. Bake in the oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown (if you added the breadcrumb topping).
11. Serve and enjoy: Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed while still hot and creamy!

You can also customize this recipe by adding other ingredients like cooked bacon, diced ham, sautéed onions, or chopped vegetables for extra flavor and texture. Enjoy your homemade mac and cheese!

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