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macaroni and cheese recipe

macaroni and cheese recipe
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This macaroni and cheese recipe offers everything you crave in a comfort food classic and more. Its simplicity is unmatched; you don't need fancy equipment or advanced culinary skills to achieve spectacular results. The flavor profile is incredibly rich and balanced, featuring a blend of cheeses that melt into a velvety smooth sauce, seasoned just right to enhance every bite. This homemade macaroni and cheese adapts beautifully to your preferences, allowing for endless variations once you master the foundational recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound Elbow Macaroni
6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
6 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
5 cups Whole Milk (warm)
4 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly grated
2 cups Gruyère or Monterey Jack Cheese, freshly grated
1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
½ teaspoon Nutmeg, freshly grated
1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground (or to taste)
½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional)
2 tablespoons Melted Butter (for breadcrumbs, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until it's just shy of al dente – about 1-2 minutes less than recommended. Drain and set aside. Do not rinse
  2. Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat
  3. Make the Roux: Add the flour to the melted butter, whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth paste
  4. Warm the Milk: Gradually whisk in the warm milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes
  5. Add Flavorings: Stir in Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper
  6. Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and add cheese gradually, stirring until melted
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Stir in the drained pasta until evenly coated
  8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golde
  9. Serve: Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving

Notes

Grate your own cheese for a creamier texture.

Allow macaroni and cheese to cool before storing.

Find it online: https://onthatplate.com/the-best-homemade-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe-creamy-easy/