Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and easy to make. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether as a quick meal or a side dish. This recipe gives you a rich, smooth sauce and delicious flavor every time.
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian
Keyword Mac and cheese
Prep Time 5 minutesminutes
Cook Time 10 minutesminutes
Baked time 20 minutesminutes
Total Time 35 minutesminutes
Servings 6People
Ingredients
2cupsuncooked elbow macaroni
1cupmozzarella and cheddar cheese
1tbspbutter
Sauce
2cupswhipping cream
1cupmilk
2tbspbutter
1tbspflour
1tspsalt
1/4tspblack pepper
1tsppaprika
1/2cupmozzarella cheese
1/4cupParmesan cheese
1cupcheddar cheese
Instructions
Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until tender.
While the pasta is cooking, start the sauce.
In a pan, melt the butter, then add the flour. Mix well. Add salt, pepper, and paprika, and stir.
Pour in the milk and whipping cream, mixing until smooth.
Let the sauce cook until it thickens slightly, then turn off the heat.
Add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Stir until fully melted and creamy.
Drain the pasta and place it in a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the pasta.
Top with extra cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for about 20 minutes, until bubbly and melted.
Remove from the oven and enjoy while warm.
Notes
• You can adjust the cheese amounts based on how cheesy you like it.•For a richer flavor, use more whipping cream instead of milk.•If the sauce feels too thick at any point, add a little milk or cream to loosen it.•Baking is optional—skip it for a creamier texture or bake for a golden, slightly crispy top.•Feel free to customize by adding your favorite ingredients or seasonings.•This recipe can easily be doubled for larger portions.•Always use medium to low heat when making the sauce to avoid burning or separating.•The sauce will thicken more as it cools, so keep that in mind when cooking.