Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food that will make your taste buds dance with pure cheesy delight! This isn't just any macaroni and cheese - this is the most decadent, creamy, and irresistible mac and cheese recipe that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine a dish so rich and velvety that each forkful is like a warm hug for your soul, packed with sharp cheddar and a perfectly smooth sauce that will redefine your expectations of this classic American comfort dish.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni, 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup butter, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour, whisking constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, or until it starts to thicken slightly.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary to suit your preference.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and then return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni, stirring gently to combine until all the pasta is coated evenly.
- For an extra touch, you can transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish. If desired, top with additional shredded cheese or breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
- If you choose to bake it, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your rich and creamy macaroni and cheese!
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged - it melts more smoothly and has better flavor.
- Cook your pasta just until al dente to prevent mushy mac and cheese.
- Whisk continuously when making the roux to prevent lumps in your sauce.
- For extra richness, you can substitute some milk with more heavy cream.
- Experiment with cheese blends like adding some gruyère or monterey jack for complex flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little extra milk.
- For a crispy top, broil the mac and cheese for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to set.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 95mg
