Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe Ready in Just 30 Minutes

This Mac and Cheese Recipe is a quick, creamy delight perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 500

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz Pasta elbow macaroni is traditional, other shapes can be used.

For the Roux

4 tbsp Butter substitute with olive oil for a lighter twist.
2 tbsp Flour gluten-free flour works too.

For the Cheese Sauce

2 cups Milk swap with unsweetened almond milk for a healthier option.
1 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded, mix with Gouda or Gruyère for flair.

For the Topping

1 cup Breadcrumbs use panko for crispiness or gluten-free varieties.
Salt to taste, low-sodium alternatives for heart-health.
Pepper to taste, use cayenne for extra heat.

Equipment

Large pot
Medium Saucepan
Colander
Whisk
Baking Dish

Method

Cooking Instructions

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 8 oz pasta and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Melt 4 tbsp butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tbsp flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually add 2 cups milk to the roux, whisking constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Fold the drained pasta into the cheese sauce until well combined.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle 1 cup breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For creamy texture, add reserved pasta water while mixing. Optional to include sautéed vegetables for added nutrition.

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