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Creamy Mac and Cheese

Creamy Mac and Cheese
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A quick and easy Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe that delivers a rich, velvety texture and bold cheesy flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy lunches, this classic comfort dish uses simple pantry staples and comes together in under 30 minutes. Customizable for various diets and tastes, it’s a family favorite loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF option)
  • 2 ½ cups milk (whole or plant-based for dairy-free)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded recommended)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: ¼ tsp mustard powder or paprika for extra flavor

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In the same pot or a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden, forming the base for the sauce.
  3. Add Milk and Seasonings: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, approximately 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
  4. Stir in Cheese: Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until completely melted and smooth, creating a velvety sauce.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce and gently stir until every piece is coated with creamy goodness. Serve immediately or keep warm until ready to enjoy.

Notes

  • Whisk continuously when adding flour to butter to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and texture.
  • Slightly warm milk before adding to roux to speed up thickening.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; leave it al dente as it will soften further in the sauce.
  • Adjust sauce consistency by adding extra milk if too thick or more cheese for richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, comfort food, cheddar cheese pasta, easy dinner

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/creamy-mac-and-cheese/