Savor the creamy goodness of our Classic Mac and Cheese! Rich cheddar and mozzarella cheese sauce blankets tender pasta, creating a comforting and delicious dish. With a touch of paprika for extra flavor and optional breadcrumbs for a crispy topping, it’s a timeless favorite the whole family will love. Whip it up for a cozy dinner that’s sure to warm hearts and satisfy cravings.
Mac and Cheese
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 ounces about 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika optional
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs optional, for topping
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
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Drain the pasta and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
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In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously until the mixture turns golden brown and starts to smell nutty, about 2 minutes.
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Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
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Cook the sauce until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
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Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
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Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
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Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined, ensuring all the pasta is coated with the sauce.
Optional Topping:
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If desired, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Bake (Optional):
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Serve:
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Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
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Serve hot and enjoy your classic mac and cheese!
