Macroni & Cheese

Homestyle Macaroni and Cheese

🧀 Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  
  

• 4 tablespoons butter
  
  

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  
  

• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
  
  

• 1 cup heavy cream
  
  

• 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  
  

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
  

• Salt and pepper to taste
  
  

• Optional topping: ½ cup breadcrumbs + 1 tablespoon melted butter
  
  

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until just al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
   
   

2. Make the roux (cheese sauce base):
   In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth paste.
   
   

3. Add the milk and cream:
   Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes). It should coat the back of a spoon.
   
   

4. Add the cheese:
   Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
   

5. Combine pasta and cheese sauce:
   Stir the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
   
   

6. Optional baking step (for a golden crust):
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
   
   

🧡 Tips:

• For extra creaminess, add an extra splash of cream just before serving.
  
  

• Want to mix it up? Try adding cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.