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Cozy Grown-Up Mac and Cheese

This creamy, comforting, and indulgent mac and cheese brings a gourmet touch to your weeknight dinner, featuring a rich cheese sauce and customizable toppings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk Whole milk is recommended for creaminess.
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Breadcrumbs for topping (optional) For a crispy layer.
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (optional) For added flavor and color.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
  2. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan, mixing until melted and smooth.
Combining and Serving
  1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
  2. If you prefer a baked version, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  3. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy your lovely masterpiece!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Can be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat slowly after thawing.