Description
Creamy, cheesy, and nostalgic—this cafeteria-style macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food! Perfect as a side or main dish, it brings a sense of warmth and togetherness to any table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the flour, whisking constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Add Milk and Seasonings: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is fully coated.
- Optional Baking Step: If a crispy topping is desired, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Enjoy your mac and cheese hot, straight from the stovetop or oven, for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Notes
- Pasta Texture Matters: Cook the macaroni until just al dente, as it will soften further when combined with the cheese sauce. Overcooking the pasta can make the dish mushy.
- Cheese Selection is Key: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor and mozzarella for extra creaminess. Mixing cheese varieties adds depth, but ensure they melt smoothly to avoid grainy sauce.
- Customizable Toppings: Breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch when baked. For extra flavor, mix them with melted butter and Parmesan cheese before sprinkling on top.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 30 min