Description
A comforting and creamy classic mac and cheese recipe that brings joy to every table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil a pot of water and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, about 7-8 minutes.
- Drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika to the melted butter, stirring until it forms a roux.
- Whisk in the milk slowly, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, ensuring all pasta is coated.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into it.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy topping.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Experiment with different cheeses or add-ins like crispy bacon or vegetables for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, baked pasta, easy recipe