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A comforting dish of traditional macaroni and cheese topped with golden breadcrumbs.

Macaroni and Cheese

A creamy and comforting classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. This baked macaroni and cheese boasts a golden top and a velvety cheese sauce, making it a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and base ingredients
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 3 to 3.5 cups milk (whole or 2%) Whole milk is best, but 2% works.
  • 1 cup half and half Optional, but recommended.
Cheese ingredients
  • 4 cups shredded cheese Try 3 cups sharp cheddar plus 1 cup Gruyere.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Plus more for pasta water.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Optional.
  • 1 pinch paprika Optional.
Topping ingredients
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Optional for topping.
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter For breadcrumbs.

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Boil the pasta in well salted water. Cook it until it's just barely done. Drain it and set it aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt the butter on medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about a minute to create a smooth paste.
  3. Slowly pour in the milk (and half and half if using), whisking continuously until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5 to 7 minutes).
  4. Turn the heat to low and add the shredded cheese in handfuls, stirring until it melts. Add salt, pepper, and any extras like garlic powder or paprika. Taste the sauce.
  5. Stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until every piece is coated.
  6. Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish. For a crunchy top, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over.
  7. Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes, then broil for 1 to 2 minutes for an extra golden topping.

Notes

Let the mac and cheese rest for 10 minutes after baking for better scooping. It can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a day or frozen.