Description
A heartwarming dish that combines creamy cheese with the comfort of pasta, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup bread crumbs (optional for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.
- Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish. If desired, mix the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese together and sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For a kick, add red pepper flakes or jalapeños. You can also mix in cooked veggies for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg