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–+ servings
homemade mac and cheese

Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese That Feels Like a Hug

Experience the warmth of homemade mac and cheese, a comforting dish that embraces every bite with creamy, cheesy goodness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Elbow Macaroni Feel free to switch it up with your favorite pasta shape
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Substitute with margarine or vegan butter for a dairy-free option
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Whole wheat flour offers a healthier variant
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Swap with 2% or oat milk for a lighter option
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Always opt for freshly grated for the best melting
  • 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese Gruyère can be used for a more upscale taste
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to your preference
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground is always a great choice

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large saucepan
  • Colander
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni according to package directions (8-10 minutes). Then drain and rinse briefly with cold water.
  3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in warm whole milk into the roux, cooking until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Remove from heat, then stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Gently fold in the elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce until coated.
  7. Transfer to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to mix and match the ingredients according to your preferences for a personalized touch. Experiment with different cheeses or add-ins like vegetables or bacon!

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