🍝 Creamy Macaroni & Cheese
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the pasta
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2 cups (200 g) macaroni (or elbow pasta)
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4 cups water
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1 tsp salt
For the cheese sauce
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups (480 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
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1 tsp mustard powder (optional, adds depth)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar & mozzarella)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional topping
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
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Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente (slightly firm).
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Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce
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In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
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Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
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Cook until slightly thickened, 4–5 minutes.
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Add mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
3. Combine pasta & sauce
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Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
4. Optional baked version
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Transfer mac & cheese to a greased baking dish.
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Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
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Bake 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy on top.
Tips & Variations
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Extra creamy: Add ¼ cup cream cheese to the sauce.
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Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
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Veggie boost: Add steamed broccoli, peas, or roasted red peppers.
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Gourmet twist: Mix in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or truffle oil.
If you want, I can also give you a 5-minute stovetop mac & cheese version that’s super quick, perfect for a fast dinner.
Do you want me to do that?
