This classic comfort food is made extra creamy and cheesy with a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- For the Macaroni:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 quarts water
- 1 tablespoon salt
- For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups (16 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter.
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Bring the water and salt to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions, until al dente (slightly firm).
- Drain the macaroni and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a light golden roux forms.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, dry mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 3 cups of the cheddar cheese and 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Bake:
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Evenly distribute the remaining 1 cup cheddar, and 1 cup mozzarella accross the top of the macaroni.
- Optional: in a small bowl combine the bread crumbs and melted butter, and sprinkle over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little heat.
- Add veggies: Stir in cooked vegetables like broccoli, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Meat additions: Add cooked crumbled bacon, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the macaroni and cheese up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for the last few minutes of cooking, watching carefully so it does not burn.