Forktionary

Awesome Mac And Cheese Recipe

This creamy, dreamy mac and cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Inspired by an Allrecipes favorite, this dish is surprisingly quick to assemble and delivers ultimate cheesy comfort. Get ready for perfectly cooked pasta smothered in a rich, three-cheese sauce with a delightfully crispy top. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 549.8 kcal
Protein 46g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Awesome Mac And Cheese 80

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Awesome Mac And Cheese

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups warmed whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • paprika, for sprinkling (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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How to Make Awesome Mac And Cheese

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of warmed whole milk, a little at a time, ensuring a smooth consistency. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional).
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine.
  8. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  9. Sprinkle with paprika (optional).
  10. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Check for doneness around the 45 minute mark.
  11. Let rest for 10-20 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

17 g

Sugar

3g

Fat

98g

Carbs

14g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Main Courses Main Dish / Dinner Sweets & Sides Side Dishes The Americas American Southern Vegetarian Fall Recipes Holiday Recipes Baking

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Side Dishes Eggs Dairy Pasta Easy Cheese Dietary High Calcium High In Something Pasta Rice And Grains Elbow Macaroni 3 Steps Or Less