A creamy and cheesy dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy in minutes.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time15 min
Total Time25 min
Difficulty
Easy
Chef's Cooking Tips
Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
Stir constantly when adding cheese to avoid clumping.
Cook pasta just until al dente to keep it from getting mushy.
Ingredients
0/10
Reasons You'll Love It
Creamy, cheesy, and ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting meal quickly. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
Step 1
Combin the milk, salt, cayenne, mustard, nutmeg, and a tablespoon of butter in a pot over medium heat. Let it come to a gentle simmer. Once it’s simmering, stir in the macaroni and cook, stirring now and then, until the pasta is tender but still has a bit of bite—this should take about 8 minutes, so don’t rush it.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, melt the remaining butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring frequently, until they turn a nice golden brown—about 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 3
When the macaroni is done, stir in the cheeses and lower the heat to low. Keep stirring just until the cheese melts smoothly into the pasta. Then, turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken up.
Step 4
Give it a good stir, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed. Scoop the mac and cheese into bowls and sprinkle those crunchy toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving.
26
people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Ideas To Try
Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Adding crispy bacon or breadcrumbs on top can also give it a nice crunch and extra flavor.
Food Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like shells or penne, but cooking times may vary slightly.
What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs for the topping?
You can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, but panko gives the best crunch.
Is it necessary to use both sharp and white Cheddar cheese?
Using both adds depth of flavor, but you can use just one type if preferred.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives, and use dairy-free cheese, but the texture and flavor will change.
How do I store leftovers and reheat them?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Can I add protein or vegetables to this dish?
Yes, cooked chicken, bacon, or steamed veggies can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
What does the dried mustard do in the recipe?
It adds a subtle tangy depth to the cheese sauce but is optional if you don’t have it.
Why is it important to let the mac and cheese sit covered after cooking?
Letting it sit helps the sauce thicken and the flavors meld together for a creamier texture.
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