Ingredients for All American Macaroni Cheese
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- Garlic Clove
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Mild Cheddar Cheese
How to Make All American Macaroni Cheese
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While macaroni cooks, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the saucepan; cook until softened and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (roux).
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in sharp cheddar cheese, one cup at a time, until melted and smooth. Repeat with mild cheddar cheese.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Pour macaroni and cheese into a greased 1-quart casserole dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor
Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
14 g
Sugar
5g
Fat
67g
Carbs
9g