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Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 86 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course, Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop and Baking (optional)
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This homemade macaroni and cheese recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The sauce is crafted with a classic roux base and enriched with whole milk and heavy cream, creating the ultimate comfort food. For an optional finishing touch, a buttery breadcrumb topping adds a golden, crunchy layer when baked. Perfect as a hearty main or a beloved side dish, this crowd-pleaser is versatile and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard (optional)
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Topping

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

  1. Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and form a smooth roux.
  3. Prepare Cheese Sauce: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dry mustard if using. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Add Cheeses: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth. This creates a rich and creamy cheese sauce.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well until every piece is evenly coated with the cheesy mixture.
  6. (Optional) Bake with Topping: If desired, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the dish is bubbly.
  7. Serve: Serve the macaroni and cheese warm, straight from the stove for creamy comfort or from the oven for a crunchy-topped version.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
  • This dish reheats well and can be prepared a day ahead and baked before serving for convenience.

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Find it online: https://dailydinnersolutions.com/homemade-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe/