Homemade Mac and Cheese: Creamy, Luxurious Comfort Food
By Emma Collins
Homemade mac and cheese is a beloved dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta with a velvety cheese sauce. This recipe elevates traditional comfort food with a blend of cheeses, creating a rich and smooth texture. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it's hearty and satisfying without being heavy. Serve it as is or enhance it with your favorite add-ins for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- •1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite short pasta shape)
- •1 tablespoon salt (for the pasta water)
- •4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- •1 cup all-purpose flour
- •3 cups whole milk (warmed)
- •1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- •1 2 black pepper
- •1 4 smoked paprika (adds depth)
- •1 4 garlic powder (optional)
- •4 cups shredded cheese blend (mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère recommended)
- •1 2 panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- •2 tablespoons melted butter
- •1 pinch paprika
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking.
- 2
Whisk together flour, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a medium bowl.
- 3
Warm the milk slightly in a small saucepan or microwave.
- 4
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- 5
Whisk in the prepared dry ingredients and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- 6
Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
- 7
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheeses a handful at a time until melted.
- 8
Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and combine with the cheese sauce.
- 9
If baking, transfer to a greased baking dish.
- 10
Mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of paprika, and sprinkle on top.
- 11
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- 12
Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- 13
Scoop into bowls and enjoy.
