Mac & Cheese

Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

16 oz elbow macaroni

4 tbsp butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

½ tsp dry mustard (optional)

4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)

1 cup shredded Colby Jack or Monterey Jack cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)

2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

---

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.

3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbly.

4. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth.

5. Add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dry mustard. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

6. Stir in 3 cups of cheddar, Colby Jack, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.

3. Assemble & Bake

7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

8. Toss cooked macaroni in the cheese sauce, then pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

9. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese over the top.

10. Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.

4. Bake & Serve

11. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

12. Let it cool slightly before serving for the ultimate creamy, cheesy bite.

Enjoy Grandma’s legendary Mac & Cheese, filled with love and nostalgia!