Your rating
Not rated yet!
Modify
Classic Macaroni and Cheese
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in 2 1/2 cups of whole milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika.
- Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Macaroni and cheese has a rich history dating back to the 14th century in Italy, where it was first recorded in a medieval cookbook. The dish gained popularity in the United States during the 18th century, and Thomas Jefferson is credited with introducing it to the country after tasting it in France. The creamy, cheesy pasta dish has since become a beloved comfort food staple in American cuisine. Chefs like Julia Child and Martha Stewart have popularized their own versions, while restaurants like Homeroom in Oakland, California, and Beecher's Handmade Cheese in Seattle, Washington, are known for their exceptional mac and cheese. The key to a perfect mac and cheese lies in the quality of the cheese and the al dente texture of the macaroni. Some alternative methods include adding breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping or incorporating bacon for a savory twist. Today, the best mac and cheese can be found in various eateries across the United States, each offering their unique take on this classic dish.
40 min
6
450 calories
Most popular recipes
BBQ Bacon Burger
A delicious and hearty burger with smoky BBQ sauce and crispy bacon.
30 min
4
650 calories
Sago Pudding
A creamy and comforting dessert made with sago pearls, milk, and sugar.
40 min
4
250 calories
Liverwurst Sandwich
A classic and delicious liverwurst sandwich perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
10 min
1
350 calories
Most recent recipes
Spicy Sausage and Cauliflower Sheet Pan Dinner with Balsamic Glaze
This sheet pan dinner is a delicious and easy one-pan meal that combines spicy sausage, roasted cauliflower, and a sweet balsamic glaze.
45 min
4
450 calories
Mediterranean Baked Chicken and Vegetables
A delicious and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish with tender baked chicken and flavorful roasted vegetables.
55 min
4
350 calories
White Chocolate Dipped Chocolate Biscotti
Delicious and crunchy chocolate biscotti dipped in creamy white chocolate.
65 min
24
150 calories