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A delicious serving of creamy Mac And Cheese is presented as the featured image.

ULTIMATE Mac and Cheese

This recipe guides you through creating the ultimate creamy and cheesy Mac and Cheese from scratch. It emphasizes using a variety of cheeses and seasonings for depth of flavor, offering options for both stovetop and baked versions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni or other pasta shape
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded Fontina cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded Gouda cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
  • Dash of hot sauce optional

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • whisk
  • Fine-mesh sieve (optional)
  • Separate saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
  • Cheese grater
  • Baking dish (optional)
  • Oven (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms (the roux). Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  3. Add the liquid: Warm the milk and cream in a separate saucepan or in the microwave. Gradually whisk the warm milk and cream into the roux, a little at a time, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  4. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the cheeses gradually, stirring until each batch is melted before adding more.
  6. Season: Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, and hot sauce (if using).
  7. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
  8. For stovetop: Adjust consistency with more milk or cream if needed. Serve immediately.
  9. For baked (optional): Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the Mac And Cheese into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs or extra cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the Mac And Cheese is bubbly. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer sauce, use more cream and less milk. Shred your own cheese for best melting. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a little milk if needed. Variations: Add bacon, lobster, Buffalo chicken, roasted vegetables, or jalapeños for different flavors. For a low-carb option, substitute cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for the pasta.