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Mitchell Grace

Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ultra-creamy, cheesy mac and cheese made with a béchamel-based sauce, melty cheese, and tender pasta—perfectly indulgent, customizable, and ideal for cozy dinners or potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Classic comfort food, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 445

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb pasta e.g., elbow macaroni, cavatappi
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream optional for extra richness
  • 2 –3 cups shredded cheese e.g., cheddar, gruyère
  • Salt pepper, optional spices (garlic powder, paprika)

Equipment

  • Saucepan or large pot
  • Whisk or wooden spoon
  • Baking dish (if baked version)
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Oven (for baked version)

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux — cook briefly.
  3. Allrecipes
  4. Gradually whisk in milk (and cream), simmer until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat; stir in shredded cheese until smooth.
  6. Combine cheese sauce with pasta.
  7. For stovetop: serve immediately.
  8. For baked: transfer to dish, top with extra cheese (or breadcrumbs), bake until bubbly and golden (about 20–35 min)