Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your mac and cheese experience forever! This isn't just another ordinary pasta dish - this is the ultimate white mac and cheese that will make your taste buds dance with pure creamy delight. Imagine a luxuriously smooth, velvety cheese sauce that clings perfectly to each tender elbow macaroni, creating a comfort food masterpiece that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Whether you're a cheese lover, a pasta enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a classic dish elevated to gourmet heights, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort meal.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, melt butter in a separate large saucepan over medium heat until it becomes foamy and starts to shimmer.
- Sprinkle flour into the melted butter, whisking constantly to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour milk into the roux, continuing to whisk to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Reduce heat to low and add shredded white cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and sauce is smooth.
- Drain cooked pasta thoroughly and return to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and stir gently to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to distribute seasonings.
- Serve immediately while hot and creamy, garnishing with additional cheese if desired.
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always grate your own cheese for the smoothest, most luxurious sauce.
- Control your roux: When making the butter and flour mixture, cook it just until it turns slightly golden. This helps remove the raw flour taste and creates a perfect base for your cheese sauce.
- Add milk gradually: Pour milk slowly while whisking constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a silky-smooth sauce.
- Choose the right cheese: White cheddar provides a sharp, tangy flavor, but you can experiment with other white cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for variation.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Cook macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot cheese sauce.
- Serve immediately: Mac and cheese is best enjoyed right after preparation when it's hot and at its creamiest.
- Optional add-ins: Consider mixing in crispy bacon bits, diced green onions, or breadcrumbs on top for extra texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg
