Classic Macaroni and Cheese

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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the timeless appeal of Classic Macaroni and Cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, this dish is a nostalgic favorite that brings warmth to any table. Whether served as a side or the star of the meal, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

The combination of tender elbow pasta smothered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce and topped with a crisp, buttery crust creates a harmony of textures and flavors that are both indulgent and familiar. This recipe keeps things simple and classic, letting the creamy cheddar sauce shine.

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Why You’ll Love This Classic Macaroni and Cheese

• Unmatched Creaminess: The homemade cheese sauce is silky, rich, and coats every noodle.
• Golden Topping: That broiled breadcrumb layer adds a satisfying crunch.
• Kid and Adult Approved: A family staple that never goes out of style.
• Customizable: Add bacon, tomatoes, or different cheeses for your own twist.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into creating the perfect macaroni and cheese, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable:

• Large Pot: Essential for boiling the macaroni evenly.
• Saucepan: Used to make the cheese sauce separately for better control over texture and flavor.
• Whisk: Crucial for blending the roux and milk into a lump-free, smooth sauce.
• 9×13 Baking Dish: Ideal for evenly baking and browning the top layer.
• Oven Broiler (Optional): Helps you get that perfectly golden top crust.

With these tools on hand and a little preparation, you’ll have a bubbling tray of classic comfort ready to enjoy.

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Ingredients for the Classic Macaroni and Cheese

• Elbow Macaroni: The iconic pasta shape that holds cheese sauce in every curve.
• Unsalted Butter: Creates the base for the roux and enhances flavor richness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce for that perfect creamy texture.
• Whole Milk: The creamy component that makes the sauce velvety.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The main flavor driver—bold, tangy, and melty.
• Salt and Pepper: Brings balance and enhances the savory notes.
• Paprika (optional): Adds a hint of warmth and color to the topping.
• Breadcrumbs: For that golden, crunchy topping we all crave.

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How To Make the Classic Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a paste and bubbles lightly without browning.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce

Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and continue stirring until the sauce thickens—about 5 minutes. Reduce heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.

Step 4: Combine and Layer

In a large mixing bowl or directly in your baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Pour the mixture into a 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of breadcrumbs on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set. Enjoy that gooey-cheesy satisfaction with every bite!

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Serving and Storing Classic Macaroni and Cheese

Serve this dish straight from the oven while it’s piping hot and the cheese is still luxuriously melty. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, fried chicken, or even a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

For leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk before microwaving or warm it in the oven covered with foil to retain its creamy texture.

Freezing? Yes, you can! Let it cool, wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What cheeses can I use besides cheddar?

You can mix in Gruyère for a nutty flavor, Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, or Parmesan for a salty punch. Avoid cheeses that don’t melt smoothly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free macaroni and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

How do I keep the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Avoid overheating the sauce. Once the cheese is added, reduce the heat and stir gently until just melted.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Try mixing in crumbled bacon, caramelized onions, or a dash of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes! It freezes well for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and label it with the date.

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Want More Pasta Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this Classic Macaroni and Cheese, you might want to try these equally cozy and flavorful dishes:

• Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for a sweet and spicy twist.
• Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti if you crave a Tex-Mex spin on creamy pasta.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a bolder, spiced-up cheesy pasta.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole that’s indulgent and ready for a family dinner.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini Bliss for pasta packed with savory steak and melty cheese.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use sharp or mild cheddar? Did you sneak in any mix-ins like jalapeños or bacon?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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