macaroni and cheddar cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
macaroni and cheddar cheese recipe
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The Best macaroni and cheddar cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share this classic macaroni and cheddar cheese recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I just can’t get enough of it. The creamy cheese sauce, the perfectly cooked pasta, and the crunch of the breadcrumbs on top – it’s a match made in heaven.

My family loves when I make this recipe for dinner, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings too. The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Simply cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then mix it with a simple cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese.

Add some breadcrumbs on top and bake until golden brown. It’s really that simple. But what I love most about this recipe is the nostalgia that comes with it.

Growing up, my mom used to make this exact same dish for me when I was feeling under the weather or just needed a comforting meal. Now, I love making it for my own kids when they’re feeling down or need a pick-me-up. This recipe is also great because it’s so versatile.

You can serve it as a main course or as a side dish – however you choose to serve it, I promise it’ll be a crowd-pleaser.

Classic Macaroni and Cheddar Cheese

Classic Macaroni and Cheddar Cheese

4.9 from 1396 votes

This creamy, homemade macaroni and cheese features sharp cheddar in a smooth sauce coating tender elbow pasta. It is baked until golden and bubbly for a comforting side or main dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon salt for pasta water

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 12 ounces)

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
5In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter.
6Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
7Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
8Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5 minutes.
9Reduce the heat to low and stir in the dry mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
10Add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
11Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in the large pot, stirring until every piece is coated.
12Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
13In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the crumbs are moistened.
14Sprinkle the topping evenly over the macaroni.
15Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown.
16Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Small bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 14g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

For a sharper flavor, use extra-sharp cheddar or mix in a cup of Gruyere. To prevent a grainy sauce, always shred cheese from a block and avoid pre-shredded varieties.

Watch Video Of How Classic Macaroni and Cheddar Cheese Works

This macaroni and cheddar cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want something easy to feed your family on a busy weeknight. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. Simply cook your pasta according to package instructions, mix with a simple cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese, add some breadcrumbs on top, and bake until golden brown.

Trust me when I say your family will love this one!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Macaroni and Cheddar Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta you like for this recipe, but I prefer to use elbow macaroni or shells because they hold onto the cheese sauce so well.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes, you can definitely use different types of cheese instead of cheddar! Some options include mozzarella, parmesan, or even a combination of cheeses. Just keep in mind that each type of cheese will change the flavor profile slightly.

Q: How do I make sure the cheese sauce doesn’t become too thick?

Avoid overcooking the pasta or adding too much flour to the cheese sauce – both can make the sauce too thick and sticky.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time! Simply assemble all the components and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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