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Creamy Mac & Cheese – The Best Cheesy Comfort Food!

Best Creamy Mac and Cheese

A comforting and creamy mac and cheese recipe featuring sharp cheddar and mozzarella, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces Elbow macaroni Classic pasta shape that holds the cheese sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter Adds richness and helps create the roux for the cheese sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour Thickens the sauce for a creamy consistency.
  • 2 cups Milk Whole milk works best for a rich flavor.
  • 2 cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese Provides a bold flavor essential for mac and cheese.
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Adds creaminess and stretchiness to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Enhances the overall taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the cheese sauce.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Optional, for a crunchy topping.
  • 2 tablespoons Melted butter Optional, helps breadcrumbs brown and adds flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • whisk
  • baking dish
  • Small bowl

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for about a minute until bubbly and golden.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes. Reduce heat to low.
  4. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently until fully coated.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
  7. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and crispy. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

This mac and cheese is versatile; feel free to add proteins or vegetables to customize it to your liking.