How to Make Quick Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy a craving, making a quick and delicious batch of macaroni and cheese is easier than you might think. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create a quick and satisfying macaroni and cheese dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

To make quick macaroni and cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound of elbow macaroni
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of mustard powder (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika (optional)

Instructions

1.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2.

Boil a large pot of water over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3.

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms, known as a roux.

4.

Slowly pour in the milk while constantly whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and begins to simmer.

5.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, one cup at a time, until fully melted and smooth. Add the salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and paprika (if using) and mix well.

6.

Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well coated.

7.

Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.

8.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly.

9.

Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Optional Additions

Feel free to customize your quick macaroni and cheese by adding your favorite ingredients. Some popular additions include:

– 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs for a crispy topping
– 1/2 cup of diced cooked ham or bacon
– 1/2 cup of diced vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or peas
– 1/4 cup of diced pimentos
– 1/4 cup of diced tomatoes

Now that you know how to make quick macaroni and cheese, you can enjoy this comforting dish any time you want. Happy cooking!