Discover the delightful comfort of our go-to macaroni and cheese recipe. This rich and creamy dish is sure to satisfy your cravings, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Follow the steps below to create a bowl of bliss that everyone will love.
Delicious Macaroni and Cheese
This macaroni and cheese recipe combines cheesy goodness with a velvety texture, ensuring each bite is delectable.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and is smooth. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently until all the pasta is coated.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. Mix well.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese into a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of paprika on top for added color.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese!
This macaroni and cheese is not only simple to make but also offers endless possibilities for customization. Feel free to add vegetables, different types of cheese, or even protein to make it your own. Savor the cheesy goodness!