Get ready to experience the most decadent, mouthwatering mac and cheese you've ever tasted! This isn't your ordinary boxed mac and cheese – this is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that will transport you straight to comfort food heaven. With a perfectly smooth cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is guaranteed to become your new go-to dish for family dinners, potlucks, or when you simply need a little culinary indulgence.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. This helps prevent lumps and builds a rich base for the sauce.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent any flour clumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to simmer, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed to enhance the flavor profile.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every pasta piece is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- For an optional crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and cool slightly. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged – it melts more smoothly and creates a creamier sauce.
- Don't rush the roux (butter and flour mixture) – cooking it properly prevents a grainy texture in your sauce.
- Choose a sharp cheddar for maximum flavor, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
- Watch your pasta closely when boiling – al dente is key to preventing mushy mac and cheese.
- For extra richness, you can substitute some milk with heavy cream.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a little extra milk.
- The optional broiling step adds a delightful crispy top that takes this dish from great to extraordinary!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 65mg
