Description
Cozy Extra Creamy Classic Mac N Cheese is the ultimate comfort food combining rich melted sharp cheddar and Colby Jack cheeses with a velvety cream sauce. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni is enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce made from a buttery roux, whole milk, and simple seasonings. This family-friendly recipe is easy to make with pantry staples and can be customized with add-ins or a baked topping for crispy texture. Ideal for family dinners, cozy nights in, or potluck favorites, it promises cheesy indulgence in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Sauce Base
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
Cheese
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (preferably freshly grated)
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside to prevent mushiness later.
- Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns slightly golden and bubbly to avoid a raw flour taste.
- Add Milk and Seasonings: Slowly pour in whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer, then add salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder to develop a creamy base.
- Melt the Cheese: Gradually stir in shredded sharp cheddar and Colby Jack cheese, whisking until the sauce is velvety smooth and all cheese is melted beautifully.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the drained macaroni and stir until every piece is generously coated with creamy goodness. Serve immediately or proceed to bake if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Do not overcook pasta; al dente pasta holds sauce better and prevents mushiness.
- Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Use whole milk or cream for optimal richness and creaminess.
- Stir sauce frequently while melting cheese to prevent sticking or burning.
- The dish can be baked with a breadcrumb topping for a crunchy crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg