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Classic Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 51 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British

Description

This classic mac and cheese recipe is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish made from simple ingredients. Tender macaroni pasta is enveloped in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, baked to perfection with a golden, crisp topping. Perfect as a hearty main or a satisfying side, this dish combines ease and nostalgia for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Macaroni

  • 400g macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 30g unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp plain flour
  • 300ml whole milk
  • 200g grated mature cheddar
  • 2 tbsp grated mature cheddar (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare pasta: Heat a large pan of boiling salted water. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make cheese sauce: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture looks sandy and develops a slightly nutty aroma. Gradually whisk in the milk thoroughly to eliminate lumps. Let the sauce bubble for a few minutes to thicken, then add the grated cheddar cheese. Whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season to taste.
  3. Combine and bake: Stir the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a 20cm x 30cm baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved 2 tablespoons of grated cheddar evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 220°C (fan 200°C/gas mark 7) for 20 minutes, or grill until the topping is golden and crisp.

Notes

  • This easy macaroni cheese recipe requires only five ingredients, making it simple yet satisfying.
  • Perfect comfort food for a cozy meal.
  • For a creamier texture, use full-fat milk and mature cheddar cheese.
  • To add extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of mustard powder or paprika to the cheese sauce.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, though the topping may lose crispness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 685
  • Sugar: 5.4g
  • Sodium: 1200mg
  • Fat: 32.8g
  • Saturated Fat: 19.4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13.4g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1g
  • Carbohydrates: 65.4g
  • Fiber: 3.7g
  • Protein: 30.1g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Find it online: https://emilyquickdinners.com/classic-mac-and-cheese-recipe/