Classic Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound of elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 3 cups of whole milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 4 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter (optional, for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

2. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color. This is your roux, which will thicken the cheese sauce.
3. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, one handful at a time. Stir continuously until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Season the Sauce: Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

6. Mix Together: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure every piece of pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Optional – Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

7. Breadcrumbs: If you prefer a crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake the Mac and Cheese

8. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If using, sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
10. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

11. Cool Slightly: Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes it easier to serve.
12. Garnish and Serve: For an extra touch, you can garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives before serving.