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+ servings
Mac and Cheese

Ultimate Mac and Cheese: Creamy Goodness Everyone Loves

Ultimate Mac and Cheese is a comforting, creamy dish everyone loves, perfect for busy nights or family gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces pasta whole grain or gluten-free can be used
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons butter or margarine/plant-based for dairy-free option
  • 4 tablespoons flour gluten-free flour works great
  • 3 cups milk unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyère, mozzarella
For the Topping
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • medium saucepan
  • whisk
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ultimate Mac and Cheese
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour and cook for about one minute.
  3. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk, stirring constantly for about 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until thoroughly coated.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture to greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For added flavor, consider mixing in veggies or crispy bacon before baking. Perfect for meals at home or gatherings.

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