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Ultimate Mac and Cheese

Ultimate Mac and Cheese: Creamy Comfort You Can Customize

This Ultimate Mac and Cheese is a quick, customizable comfort food that brings warmth and delight in every bite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta (elbow macaroni or shell pasta) Gluten-free pasta is a great substitute.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tbsp Butter Adds richness; olive oil can be a lighter alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Flour Thickens the cheese sauce; all-purpose flour preferred.
  • 1 cup Milk Whole milk is best; almond milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded) Try Gouda or Gruyère for a flavorful twist.
For the Topping
  • Breadcrumbs (optional) Use panko for extra texture or skip for a gluten-free option.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook for 7–8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a smooth paste.
  3. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk into the roux and cook on medium heat, stirring continuously for about 5 minutes until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained pasta with the cheese sauce until every noodle is coated.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs if desired, and bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This dish is customizable with add-ins like bacon, vegetables, or spices. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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