Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy, this Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate weeknight dinner or side dish. Made with tender elbow macaroni coated in a luscious, velvety cheese sauce featuring a blend of sharp cheddar and melty mozzarella, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. A touch of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that enhances the rich flavors, while the option of paprika garnish provides an inviting pop of color. Perfect for busy families or anyone in need of hearty comfort food, this one-pot wonder is designed to please every palate. Whether you're serving it as a standalone meal or pairing it with your favorite proteins, this macaroni and cheese is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons paprika (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should be smooth and bubbly.
Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until it begins to thicken.
Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese, one handful at a time, until melted and smooth.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
Serve immediately. If desired, sprinkle with paprika for a touch of color and added flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3535 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 233.2 g | 299% | |
| Saturated Fat | 140.6 g | 703% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 714 mg | 238% | |
| Sodium | 3786 mg | 165% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 206.2 g | 75% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.4 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.7 g | ||
| Protein | 132.0 g | 264% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.4 mcg | 27% | |
| Calcium | 3037 mg | 234% | |
| Iron | 8.5 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 786 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
