Description
A creamy and cheesy macaroni dish that brings back the warmth of grandma’s kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Add the shredded cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, mixing well.
- If desired, pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or diced tomatoes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg