Description
This Mouthwatering Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy indulgence perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
- cooked bacon bits
- caramelized onions
- roasted jalapeños
- toasted breadcrumbs (for topping)
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot, add salt and elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Gradually pour in warm milk while whisking, then add heavy cream. Continue whisking until thickened and smooth (about 5–7 minutes).
- Lower heat and slowly stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Fold cooked pasta into the cheese sauce gently until fully coated. Mix in any optional ingredients.
- (Optional) Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake uncovered 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 80mg