🧀 Classic Macaroni & Cheese (Creamy & Cheesy)
Rich, smooth, and comforting — ready in about 30 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk best)
- 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra melt)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch paprika or mustard powder
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook pasta
Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain.
2️⃣ Make roux
In a pot, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute (don’t brown).
3️⃣ Add milk
Slowly whisk in milk.
Cook 3–5 minutes, stirring, until thickened.
4️⃣ Add cheese
Reduce heat to low.
Stir in shredded cheese until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
5️⃣ Combine
Fold in cooked pasta. Serve immediately for creamy stovetop style.
🔥 Baked Version (Golden Top)
- Pour mac & cheese into greased baking dish.
- Top with extra cheese and/or buttered breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
🌿 Tips for Extra Creamy Mac & Cheese
- Shred cheese yourself (pre-shredded doesn’t melt as smoothly).
- Add 2 oz cream cheese for ultra-creamy texture.
- Mix cheddar with Colby Jack, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
- Don’t overcook the pasta — it continues cooking in the sauce.
If you’d like, I can give you:
- A southern-style baked mac
- A one-pot easy version
- Or a gourmet version with bacon or lobster
What style are you in the mood for? 🧀
