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Making a great mac and cheese starts with the right ingredients. Here's what you need: - 8 ounces elbow macaroni - 2 tablespoons butter - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour - 2 cups whole milk - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons melted butter for topping Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture. The elbow macaroni provides a perfect shape for holding cheese sauce. Butter adds richness, while flour helps thicken the sauce. Whole milk gives the dish a creamy base. Sharp cheddar and mozzarella create a delicious flavor blend, making every bite satisfying. Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang. Garlic and onion powders enhance the overall taste. Salt and black pepper round out the flavors. Breadcrumbs topped with melted butter offer a nice crunch when baked. You can find the full recipe to guide you through making this comforting dish. Enjoy the cooking process! Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is key to good pasta. Once the water boils, add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni. Cook the pasta for 7 to 9 minutes. You want it al dente, so check it a minute early. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. When the butter melts, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk this mix for 1 to 2 minutes. You want it to turn a light golden color. This roux will help thicken your cheese sauce. Slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking. Stir for about 3 to 5 minutes. The mix should become smooth and creamy. Next, lower the heat and add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until all the cheese melts. Then, mix in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add the cooked macaroni back into the cheese sauce. Gently fold the pasta into the sauce. Make sure every piece is well-coated with that creamy goodness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully transfer the mac and cheese mix into a lightly greased baking dish. Spread it evenly. This step helps with even cooking. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This adds a nice crunch. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mix evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. Bake it in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a golden brown topping to know it's done. For the full recipe, check out the Creamy Dreamy Mac and Cheese section. Choosing the right cheese blend is key. I love using sharp cheddar and mozzarella. Sharp cheddar gives strong flavor. Mozzarella adds stretch and creaminess. You can mix in some gouda or fontina for more depth. Just make sure to shred your cheese fresh. Pre-shredded cheese has additives that can make the sauce grainy. To maintain a creamy texture, it’s important to whisk often. Start with a smooth roux by mixing flour with butter. Then, add milk slowly while whisking. This helps avoid lumps. Keep stirring until you see a thick sauce. If it gets too thick, add a splash more milk. For the breadcrumb topping, use fresh breadcrumbs instead of dried ones. Fresh breadcrumbs soak up more butter and crisp nicely. Mix them with melted butter to coat each piece. You can also add herbs or spices for extra flavor. Cooking time adjustments can help you get a crispier top. Bake your mac and cheese until the top is golden brown. Watch it closely, as ovens can vary. If you want extra crunch, broil it for a minute or two at the end. Just don’t walk away! Elevate your mac and cheese with garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh touch. You can even add some crispy bacon bits for a savory twist. For pairings, I suggest a light salad or steamed vegetables. Their freshness balances the rich cheese. You could also serve it with a side of grilled chicken or pork for a heartier meal. Enjoy your creamy dream with family and friends! For the full recipe, check out the Creamy Dreamy Mac and Cheese section. {{image_4}} You can change the cheese for a new taste. Try gouda for a smokier flavor. Blue cheese adds a nice tang. You can mix cheeses too. Combining cheddar and Monterey Jack works great. Each cheese brings a unique twist to the dish. Adding protein makes mac and cheese heartier. Bacon gives a salty crunch that many love. Cook the bacon first, then chop it up. You can also add cooked chicken for a filling meal. For a veggie option, toss in spinach or mushrooms. They add nutrients and flavor without meat. Spices can boost the flavor of your mac and cheese. A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth. Cayenne pepper gives it a little heat. You can even add sauces for fun. A splash of hot sauce brings tang. Mixing in some BBQ sauce adds sweetness. With these options, you can create your perfect dish. Check the full recipe for more ideas! To keep your mac and cheese fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This will help it stay tasty for about three to four days. When you put it in the fridge, let it cool first to avoid warm air. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Divide the mac and cheese into smaller portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When reheating, aim to keep the texture creamy. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in a baking dish. Add a splash of milk to help with moisture. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 20 minutes. You can also reheat it on the stovetop. Use low heat and stir often. Add a bit of milk if it gets too thick. Enjoy your warm, cheesy dish just like fresh! For the full recipe, check out the Creamy Dreamy Mac and Cheese . For the best mac and cheese, I suggest using sharp cheddar and mozzarella. - Sharp cheddar gives a rich and tangy flavor. - Mozzarella adds creaminess and stretch. - You can also try gouda for a smoky taste. - Mixing different cheeses can create a yummy blend. Yes, you can use gluten-free macaroni! - Look for options made from rice or corn. - Cook them according to package instructions. - Gluten-free pasta may need a bit less cooking time. - Adjust the cheese sauce for taste and texture. Homemade mac and cheese lasts about 3-5 days in the fridge. - Store it in an airtight container. - Check for any signs of spoilage before eating. - You can freeze it for up to two months if needed. You can make mac and cheese ahead of time! - Prepare it fully, then cover and refrigerate. - Bake it later, adding a few extra minutes to the time. - This way, you can enjoy it fresh and hot. Many sides pair nicely with mac and cheese. - Try a fresh salad for crunch and color. - Roasted vegetables add nutrition and flavor. - Grilled chicken or sausage complements the dish well. Mac and cheese has a rich history! - It dates back to the 1700s in Italy. - The first recipe appeared in a book by a chef. - It became popular in America in the 1930s. - Today, it’s a beloved comfort food worldwide. For the full recipe, check out the complete steps to create your creamy dream! We covered how to make creamy, delicious mac and cheese from scratch. You learned to choose the right ingredients, cook pasta, and create a rich cheese sauce. We also explored tips for perfect texture and flavor variations. With these steps, you can impress anyone with your dish. Enjoy crafting your own version of this classic comfort food. Happy cooking!

Classic Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy dreamy mac and cheese recipe! With a rich blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, it promises a cheesy delight in every bite. Follow our easy steps to create a perfectly baked mac and cheese topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is a must-try! Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your mac and cheese game today!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons melted butter (for breadcrumb topping)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 7-9 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside in a colander.

    Make the Roux: In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns a light golden color, forming a roux. This will add flavor and thicken your cheese sauce.

      Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly. Continue to stir for about 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes smooth and has thickened to a creamy consistency.

        Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheeses have completely melted and blended into the sauce. Incorporate the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Mix until the sauce is entirely creamy and uniform.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni back into the cheese sauce. Gently fold the pasta into the sauce until every piece is well-coated in that luscious cheese goodness.

            Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully transfer the creamy mac and cheese mixture into a lightly greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

              Add Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, mixing until the breadcrumbs are well coated. Evenly sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese for a delightful crunch.

                Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, indicating the dish is heated through.

                  Serve: Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Dish out generous portions and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight with family and friends!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                      - Serving Suggestion: For added flavor, consider sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top before serving, enhancing both color and taste. Enjoy your delicious creation!