The ULTIMATE Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 500 g elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
- For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp Dried sage
- ½ tsp Dried thyme
- ½ tsp Dried rosemary
- 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Marble cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook your pasta of choice according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, sage, thyme, and rosemary.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in milk until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Incorporate Cheese: Slowly add in shredded cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Layer and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a greased baking dish, layer the macaroni mixture with additional shredded cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly. Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden brown crust.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with parsley flakes and serve warm.