🧀 Classic Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Simple)
Mac and cheese is a simple comfort food made with pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce. You can make it stovetop (creamy) or baked (golden crust).
🧾 Ingredients
- 250–300 g elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2–3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar is best)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: mustard powder or paprika for extra flavor
👨🍳 Stovetop Method (quick & creamy)
- Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain.
- Melt butter in a pan, whisk in flour (makes a roux).
- Slowly add milk, stirring until thick.
- Add cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in pasta. Serve immediately.
👨🍳 Baked Method (crispy top)
- Follow stovetop steps above.
- Pour into baking dish.
- Top with extra cheese (and breadcrumbs if desired).
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes until golden.
⭐ Tips for best mac and cheese
- Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor
- Don’t overcook pasta (it softens more in sauce)
- Add a pinch of mustard powder—it boosts cheese flavor
- Let baked version rest 5–10 minutes before serving
🧠 Bottom line
Mac and cheese is just pasta + a simple cheese sauce, but technique (good roux + quality cheese) makes all the difference.
If you want, I can show you a super creamy restaurant version or a 5-minute microwave version.
