Mild and Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Mild and Creamy Macaroni and Cheese recipe, a rich, velvety dish that's perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Made with tender elbow macaroni and a luscious homemade cheese sauce featuring mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between creamy and cheesy goodness. The addition of whole milk, heavy cream, and a smooth roux ensures a perfectly silky texture, while optional breadcrumbs add a crispy golden topping if baked. Ready in just 35 minutes, this classic mac and cheese is irresistibly satisfying, with a mild flavor profile that appeals to all ages. Whether served as a hearty main course or a decadent side dish, it's sure to become a household favorite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the elbow macaroni for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. The pasta should be slightly firm to the bite (al dente). Drain and set aside.
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste (roux). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden and no raw flour taste remains.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, pouring slowly to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the cheeses: cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and ground mustard (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
Optional: If you'd like a baked topping, transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, sprinkle evenly with breadcrumbs, and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-12 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Serve the macaroni and cheese warm and enjoy the comforting, creamy flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
788 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 48.3 g | 62% | |
| Saturated Fat | 30.0 g | 150% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 143 mg | 48% | |
| Sodium | 1020 mg | 44% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 57.5 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.7 g | ||
| Protein | 31.6 g | 63% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.2 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 711 mg | 55% | |
| Iron | 2.5 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 292 mg | 6% | |
*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.
