Mac & Cheese

 

Ingredients:

8 ounces (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 cups milk

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns slightly golden, creating a roux.

Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, ensuring no lumps form. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer.

Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and mustard powder (if using). Adjust the seasonings to taste.

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine, making sure the macaroni is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.

Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese. This adds a nice crunchy texture to the finished dish.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroni and cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Serve the macaroni and cheese as a main dish or as a side. It's creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting!

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding ingredients like cooked chicken, sautéed onions, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and variety. Enjoy your homemade mac and cheese!