Simple Mac Cheese
Indulge in the creamy, nostalgic comfort of Simple Mac & Cheese, a quick and easy homemade classic that's perfect for weeknight dinners or satisfying cravings. This recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a velvety cheese sauce made from real shredded cheddar, ensuring bold, cheesy flavor in every bite. With just a few pantry staples like unsalted butter, flour, milk, and a touch of optional ground mustard for a hint of tang, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes and is an effortless upgrade from the boxed version. Serve it as a hearty main or a delectable side dish—either way, this Simple Mac & Cheese is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
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Ingredients
- 2 cups Elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Whole milk
- 2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons Ground mustard (optional)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 3
Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Continue whisking until all the milk is incorporated and the sauce begins to thicken, about 4-5 minutes.
Step 4
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the salt, black pepper, and ground mustard (if using), and stir well.
Step 5
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently stir to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 6
Serve immediately, garnished with additional shredded cheese or a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (961.2g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2235.0 |
| Total Fat 116.2g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 71.5g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g | |
| Cholesterol 362.7mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2822.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 196.3g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 7.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 30.7g | |
| Protein 103.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 214.7IU | 0% |
| Calcium 2226.9mg | 0% |
| Iron 8.1mg | 0% |
| Potassium 765.6mg | 0% |
Source of Calories