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–+ servings

GOOD OLE FASHION MAC AND CHEES

Creamy baked mac and cheese made with sharp cheddar, a buttery roux, and a crisp breadcrumb topping — classic comfort food that's easy to make and perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cup elbow macaroni (dry)
  • 4 tablespoon unsalted butter divided
  • 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 2.5 cup whole milk warmed
  • 3 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded (optional for extra meltiness)
  • 1 teaspoon salt for sauce and pasta water
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon dry mustard adds depth of flavor
  • 0.5 cup plain breadcrumbs tossed with 1.0 tablespoon melted butter for topping

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package directions (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  • In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden to form a roux.
  • Slowly whisk in the warmed milk, a little at a time, until the mixture is smooth. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes).
  • Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar and all of the mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and dry mustard. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  • Mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar over the breadcrumbs for a cheesy crust.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3 days. Reheat covered in a 325°F oven until warmed through, or portion and microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 120gProtein: 120gFat: 120gSaturated Fat: 120gPolyunsaturated Fat: 120gMonounsaturated Fat: 120gTrans Fat: 120gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 120gSugar: 120gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 120mg
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