Description
Creamy macaroni and cheese is a comforting dish that elevates the classic recipe with high-quality cheeses and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions until it’s al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Roux: In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Thicken the Sauce: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it comes to a gentle bubble and thickens slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
- Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If desired, stir in the optional seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or mustard powder.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and toss until every piece is well coated.
- Serve: Let the creamy macaroni and cheese sit for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly, then serve it hot and indulgent.
Notes
To achieve a perfectly creamy texture, focus on cooking the roux properly and melting the cheese slowly over low heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 100mg