Just Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy, this "Just Macaroni and Cheese" recipe is a timeless classic that delivers rich flavor in every bite. Made with tender elbow macaroni and a luscious homemade cheese sauce featuring sharp cheddar and Parmesan, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes for the ultimate quick and satisfying meal. A buttery roux creates the perfect base, while a touch of heavy cream elevates the sauce to velvety perfection. Lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional paprika, this mac and cheese strikes the ideal balance between simplicity and indulgence. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you're craving a bowl of warm, cheesy comfort!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 225 grams elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons paprika (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightly golden and bubbly.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and add the sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, ground black pepper, and paprika (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3856 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 253.3 g | 325% | |
| Saturated Fat | 154.6 g | 773% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 758 mg | 253% | |
| Sodium | 5884 mg | 256% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 226.4 g | 82% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.5 g | 34% | |
| Total Sugars | 31.6 g | ||
| Protein | 152.3 g | 305% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.6 mcg | 33% | |
| Calcium | 3531 mg | 272% | |
| Iron | 10.4 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 1075 mg | 23% | |
*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.
