Easy Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

The ultimate comfort food: tender macaroni smothered in a rich, creamy, homemade cheese sauce, often baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

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Macaroni and Cheese
Prep
15 min
Cook
30 min
Total
45 min
Servings
6

Ingredients

  • 400gElbow macaroni
  • 60gUnsalted butter
  • 60gAll-purpose flour
  • 700mlMilk (whole or 2%)
  • 300gCheddar cheese, shredded (sharp or mild)
  • 100gGruyere or Monterey Jack, shredded
  • 1 tspDijon mustard
  • 1/4 tspNutmeg (pinch)
  • to tasteSalt and black pepper
  • 1/2 cupBreadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Nutrition

Per serving, estimated

Calories
580 kcal
Protein
25 g
Carbs
50 g
Fat
30 g

Steps

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.

  2. 2

    While pasta cooks, prepare cheese sauce: Melt butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

  3. 3

    Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens.

  4. 4

    Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheeses, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until all cheese is melted and sauce is smooth and creamy.

  5. 5

    Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.

  6. 6

    Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle with breadcrumbs on top.

  7. 7

    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

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