Mac and Cheese

Creamy, comforting mac and cheese made with a silky cheese sauce and baked until golden. An easy family favorite for any occasion.

Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort dish: tender pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and finished with a golden top. This version is simple enough for a weeknight yet satisfying enough for guests. Use a mix of cheeses for deeper flavor and bake until bubbling for the best texture.

Ingredients

• 340 g elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 500 ml whole milk
• 250 ml heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
• 250 g shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 100 g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs, optional for topping
• 1 tablespoon melted butter, optional for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200 C and lightly grease a medium baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until fully melted and creamy.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until evenly coated.
8. Transfer the pasta to the baking dish. If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
9. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
10. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.