Introduction
There’s something timeless about a warm, creamy bowl of mac and cheese. Whether you’re craving comfort food after a long day or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, this classic recipe delivers rich flavor, a smooth cheese sauce, and a perfectly golden top. Inspired by American-style comfort cooking, this mac and cheese is simple to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 250g elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (warm)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta
Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the roux
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until smooth. - Add the milk
Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens. - Add the cheese
Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted and creamy. - Combine
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. - Optional baking step
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 180°C for 15–20 minutes until golden.
Tips
- Use a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Add cooked chicken or beef for a more filling meal.
- For extra creaminess, mix in a spoon of cream cheese.