Description
Mac and Cheese is the quintessential comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with perfectly cooked pasta. This easy recipe features sharp cheddar and a rich béchamel sauce, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs for an irresistible finish. Whether you’re cozying up on a rainy day or hosting a gathering, this dish will delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup toasted breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour to create a roux until smooth.
- Gradually add milk while whisking constantly until combined. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Mix the drained pasta into the cheese sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour mac and cheese into a greased baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg