Golden Creamy Mac Cheese (Printable)

Velvety cheese sauce with tender pasta delivers a rich, cozy stovetop comfort for easy meals.

# What You Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 8 ounces elbow macaroni

→ Cheese Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
04 - 2 cups whole milk, warmed
05 - 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
06 - 2 ounces Gruyère or mozzarella cheese, grated
07 - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
10 - 1/4 teaspoon paprika
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Optional Toppings

12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
13 - 1 tablespoon toasted breadcrumbs

# How-To Steps:

01 - Boil elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 - Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbling but not browned.
03 - Gradually whisk in warmed milk, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
04 - Lower heat to low and stir in grated cheddar and Gruyère (or mozzarella) until fully melted and smooth.
05 - Mix in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
06 - Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat evenly.
07 - Plate immediately, garnishing with fresh chives and toasted breadcrumbs if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Ultra-creamy texture for maximum comfort
  • Quick stovetop preparation in under 25 minutes
02 -
  • For extra creaminess substitute half a cup of the milk with heavy cream
  • For a baked version transfer to a baking dish top with breadcrumbs and broil until golden
03 -
  • Whisk constantly when adding milk to avoid lumps
  • Use freshly grated cheese for smoother sauce
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