Prepare yourself for a culinary journey that transforms the classic mac and cheese into a Canadian masterpiece! This isn't just another pasta dish - it's a creamy, cheesy adventure that promises to elevate your comfort food game to extraordinary heights. With a perfect blend of rich cheddar, perfectly cooked pasta, and a secret touch of paprika, this recipe will have your family and friends begging for seconds (and thirds)!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Canadian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the pasta's flavor.
- Pour the elbow macaroni into the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes foamy and starts to bubble.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually pour the milk into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika, stirring to distribute the spices evenly.
- Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander, shaking off excess water. Return the pasta to the original pot.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir gently to coat the pasta thoroughly, ensuring every piece is covered in the creamy sauce.
- Let the macaroni and cheese rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to set and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional paprika or fresh chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for the smoothest, most luxurious sauce.
- Whisk your roux continuously to prevent burning and ensure a silky smooth base.
- For extra richness, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente to prevent mushy mac and cheese.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after mixing to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
- For a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Experiment with cheese varieties like aged cheddar or add a touch of smoked gouda for depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 310kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 52mg
