This classic comfort dish features macaroni pasta cooked in a cheese sauce, often with variations like adding breadcrumbs or additional ingredients like bacon or vegetables.
Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225g) elbow macaroni
- 2 cups (475ml) milk
- 2 tablespoons (28g) butter
- 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or casserole dish and set it aside.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it forms a paste-like consistency.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if desired), adjusting to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the macaroni is evenly coated.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the greased baking dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy crust, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Macaroni and Cheese!
Note: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, sautéed onions, or other ingredients of your choice to enhance the flavor.
add a comment