🍽 Dish Name: Classic Mac and Cheese
📝 Ingredients:
- 450g elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp mustard powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth roux (paste) and is lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Add the mustard powder and paprika for extra flavor if desired.
- Add the Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, mixing until completely melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Optional Step (Baked Version):
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Serve the mac and cheese hot, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh parsley if desired.
✨ Cooking Tip:
- For a creamier texture, use a mix of whole milk and heavy cream.
- You can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a richer flavor.