American favorite dish recipe Macaroni Cheese

 

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 Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

 Prep Time: 15 mins

 Cook Time: 25 mins

 Serves: 4–6

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Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp paprika (optional)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

• 2 tsp parmesan cheese (optional for topping)

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Instructions:

1. Boil the Pasta

• Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.

• Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

• Add flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes (this makes a roux).

• Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

• Cook for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

• Add salt, pepper, and paprika.

• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce.

• Stir until well coated.

4. Bake (Optional but Recommended)

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Pour the mac & cheese into a greased baking dish.

• Sprinkle breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese on top.

• Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

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Tips:

• You can add cooked bacon, jalapeños, or sautéed onions for extra flavor.

• Use a mix of cheeses (like mozzarella or gouda) for a more complex task