Super Budget Macaroni Cheese
Whip up a comforting and wallet-friendly classic with this Super Budget Macaroni Cheese recipe! Made with pantry staples like elbow macaroni, butter, milk, and a generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese, this dish delivers creamy, cheesy goodness without breaking the bank. A quick roux forms the base of the luscious cheese sauce, which can be customized with optional garlic powder for extra flavor. For a crispy, golden finish, top it with breadcrumbs and broil to perfection. Ready in just 30 minutes and serving four, this budget-friendly macaroni cheese is perfect for busy weeknights or when you're looking for an affordable, heartwarming meal.
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Ingredients
- 250 g Elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Milk
- 1.5 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Ground black pepper
- 0.25 tsp Garlic powder (optional)
- 0.5 cups Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
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-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 3
Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux.
Step 4
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk for 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 5
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time until it's completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 7
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 8
If desired, transfer the macaroni cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs, and broil in the oven for 2-4 minutes until golden and crispy.
Step 9
Serve immediately and enjoy your Super Budget Macaroni Cheese!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (704.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1183.7 |
| Total Fat 88.0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 55.2g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 1.0g | |
| Cholesterol 291.3mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2607.2mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 41.5g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 0.6g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 24.0g | |
| Protein 60.5g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 219.2IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1831.1mg | 0% |
| Iron 0.9mg | 0% |
| Potassium 791.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories