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1. Cook the Pasta
Boil the Macaroni: Cook the dry macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan or skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat.
Make a Roux: Once the butter is melted, add 1/4 cup of flour. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This mixture is known as a roux and will help thicken the cheese sauce.
Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of milk and 1 cup of light cream. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
Season the Sauce: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. If using, add the can of condensed cream of cheddar soup for extra creaminess and flavor. Mix well.
Add the Cheese: Gradually add 3 cups of the sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Reserve 1 cup of cheddar cheese for topping later.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Mix Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
4. Bake (Optional)
Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese on top of the macaroni and cheese.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you like a crustier top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
5. Serve
Cool Slightly: Let the mac n cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
Enjoy: Serve hot as a main dish or a side. This mac n cheese pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted meats, vegetables, or even a simple salad.
Tips for Perfect Mac n Cheese
Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the cheese sauce before combining with pasta and adjust the seasonings if necessary. The flavor should be well-seasoned and slightly tangy from the mustard powder.
Creaminess: For extra creaminess, you can use heavy cream instead of light cream. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute part of the cream with additional milk.
Add-ins: Feel free to add extras such as cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added texture.
Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time. Prepare it up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
This mac n cheese recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its straightforward ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade mac n cheese that rivals any restaurant version. Enjoy every bite!
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