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How to Make the Perfect Mac and Cheese Recipe

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3.9 from 10 reviews

This classic homemade Mac and Cheese recipe features perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce made from a homemade roux. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy, comforting dish ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 3/4 pound dry small pasta (elbow macaroni recommended)

Cheese Sauce

  • 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 to 2 1/2 cups 2% milk
  • 2 cups finely shredded mild cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions but reduce the time by one minute to keep it slightly firm. Drain the pasta and set it aside for a few minutes to let excess moisture evaporate.
  2. Make Roux and Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and black pepper, stirring continuously to form a roux. Cook the roux for 3-4 minutes until it turns a slightly darker golden color, indicating that the flour is cooked. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes. Lower the heat to a simmer and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely into a smooth, creamy sauce.
  3. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Transfer the drained pasta into a large Dutch oven or pot set over low heat. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and stir thoroughly to coat all the noodles evenly. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add a few tablespoons of milk gradually until the desired consistency is reached. Stir well and keep warm until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Cooking the pasta one minute less than package instructions helps prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute part of the 2% milk with whole milk or add a splash of cream.
  • Use sharp cheddar instead of mild for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
  • If desired, finish the dish with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and broil for a crispy topping.
  • Stirring continuously while making the roux and adding milk is essential to avoid lumps in the sauce.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/how-to-make-the-perfect-mac-and-cheese-recipe/