Classic Macaroni and Cheese
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A comforting and cheesy homemade baked pasta dish, perfect for a simple family dinner.
- Author: Claire
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Total Time: 45 min
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Remove from heat. Stir in salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Pour macaroni and cheese into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For an extra creamy mac and cheese, use whole milk.
- You can add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for a subtle flavor enhancement.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack or Colby.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg