Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will transform your ordinary mac and cheese into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece! This isn't just another pasta dish—it's a creamy, golden-brown sensation that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With a perfect blend of cheddar and mozzarella, our Mac and Cheese Round promises to elevate comfort food to an art form, delivering rich, velvety goodness in every single bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once butter is completely melted and bubbling, add flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Gradually pour milk into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent clumping. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheese blend. Stir until cheese is completely melted and sauce is creamy and uniform in texture.
- Sprinkle salt and paprika into the cheese sauce, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, gently folding to ensure every pasta piece is thoroughly coated.
- Transfer mac and cheese to a serving dish. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to set and cool slightly before serving.
- Optional: For a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle additional cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Tips
- Choose High-Quality Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties for smoother melting and superior flavor.
- Master the Roux: Whisk your butter and flour continuously to prevent lumps and create a silky smooth base for your cheese sauce.
- Temperature Control: Keep your heat at medium-low when adding milk and cheese to prevent scorching and ensure a creamy consistency.
- Al Dente Pasta: Cook your macaroni just until tender to prevent mushiness when mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Optional Crispy Topping: For a restaurant-style finish, broil your mac and cheese for a golden, crispy top that adds incredible texture.
- Let It Rest: Allow the mac and cheese to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the sauce set and flavors meld together.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Try adding a pinch of garlic powder, mustard powder, or cayenne for an extra flavor kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 80mg
