Description
Indulge in this classic Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe, featuring perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food for family meals or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound cavatappi or elbow pasta
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup milk (any type)
- 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Roux:
- In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring continuously, to form a roux.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it begins to bubble and thickens slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low, add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. If the mixture is too thick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Thicken and Serve:
- Let the mac and cheese sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve warm.
Notes
- Cheese Options: Experiment with Gruyère, Parmesan, or Colby Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Baking Option: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and additional cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes for a golden crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: ~467 kcal per serving
