Quick Mac and Cheese Recipe
User Reviews
4.8
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
8 Servings
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Calories
593 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Italian
Quick Mac and Cheese Recipe
Description
This Quick Mac and Cheese recipe starts by boiling elbow macaroni until al dente. Meanwhile, a roux is prepared by melting unsalted butter and whisking in flour over medium-low heat until it bubbles gently and develops a slight nutty aroma, which thickens the sauce.
Milk is slowly added with constant whisking to create a smooth, thickened mixture that resembles custard. Dijon mustard is stirred in to add a mild, sharp flavor note that complements the cheese. Cheddar cheese is melted into the sauce until fully smooth and creamy.
Finally, the cooked macaroni is combined with the sauce and stirred until fully coated. This results in a rich, gooey mac and cheese suitable for a quick meal or side dish. Optional Parmesan cheese can be added to deepen the cheese flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb macaroni
- 8 tbsp butter unsalted
- 1/2 cup flour
- 3 cups milk
- 3 cup cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese optional
Instructions
- Boil the pasta according to the package instructions.
- Melt the butter in a deep skillet over medium-low heat. Add in the flour, whisking it constantly until it starts to bubble lightly and smell a bit nutty (about 2-3 minutes).
- Slowly whisk in the milk and let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes until the texture turns custard-like. Whisk in the dijon mustard.
- Stir in the cheese until it's all dissolved and creamy.
- Add in the cooked macaroni and stir until well-combined. Dig in and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 593 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 593kcal | 30% |
| Carbohydrates | 54g | 18% |
| Protein | 26g | 52% |
| Fat | 30g | 46% |
| Saturated Fat | 19g | 95% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Trans Fat | 0.5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 79mg | 26% |
| Sodium | 507mg | 21% |
| Potassium | 350mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 983IU | 20% |
| Vitamin C | 0.003mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 578mg | 58% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.