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–+ servings
Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese with a Crunchy Twist

This Homemade Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting embrace on a plate, featuring a rich and creamy texture with a crunchy twist.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour gluten-free alternative available
  • 2 cups Milk whole or almond milk
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream more milk can be used as a substitute
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese may substitute with gouda or gruyère
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Monterey Jack can be used as a substitute
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika optional
For the Topping
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs optional; crushed crackers can be a substitute

Equipment

  • large pot
  • medium saucepan
  • whisk
  • colander
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden, creating a roux.
  3. Gradually add the milk and cream while whisking continuously. Stir for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Lower heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  5. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
  6. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and additional cheese if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUCalcium: 600mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese and avoid overbaking. You can customize the recipe by adding pre-cooked mix-ins such as bacon or vegetables.

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