Save A rich, ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese made on the stovetop for the ultimate cozy comfort food, featuring a velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite during chilly evenings. I love how simple ingredients combine to create such a comforting dish.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 250 g (8 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk warmed, 170 g (6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese grated, 60 g (2 oz) Gruyère or mozzarella cheese grated, 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp paprika, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional Toppings: 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives, 1 tbsp toasted breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook macaroni:
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make roux:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute whisking constantly until the mixture is bubbling but not browned.
- Add milk:
- Gradually pour in the warmed milk whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Combine cheeses:
- Reduce heat to low. Add the grated cheddar and Gruyère or mozzarella cheeses stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Season sauce:
- Stir in the Dijon mustard garlic powder onion powder paprika and season with salt and pepper.
- Mix pasta and sauce:
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately garnished with chives and toasted breadcrumbs if desired.
Save This dish always brings us together around the table especially on cold nights when comfort food is a must.
Required Tools
Large pot Colander Large saucepan Whisk Wooden spoon or spatula Grater
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (dairy) Wheat (gluten) May contain Mustard (in Dijon mustard). If using store-bought breadcrumbs check for additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 430 Total Fat 21 g Carbohydrates 42 g Protein 18 g
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Enjoy this creamy mac and cheese as a perfect comforting meal any night of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Gradually add warm milk to the flour and butter mixture while whisking continuously to maintain a smooth texture and avoid lumps.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of cheddar and Gruyère?
Yes, mozzarella or other melting cheeses can substitute to adjust creaminess and flavor to your liking.
- → What is the best way to cook macaroni for this dish?
Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain well to prevent excess moisture in the sauce.
- → How can I make this dish extra creamy?
Replace half a cup of milk with heavy cream for a richer, silkier cheese sauce.
- → Are there suggested add-ins for more flavor and texture?
Incorporate cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli to elevate the dish with added tastes and nutrients.