Macaroni & Cheese

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Servings: 6 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Creamy, baked pasta with a golden crust and savory vegetables
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This classic Macaroni & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety cheddar sauce. The addition of sautéed onions and green bell peppers provides a subtle savory depth and slight crunch that balances the creamy cheese. Topped with extra shredded cheese and a sprinkle of paprika, it bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection. ItâÂÂs an ideal dish for weeknight family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that feels homemade and luxurious. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both nostalgic and deeply satisfying.

Macaroni & Cheese recipe image
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Macaroni & Cheese

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6 Calories: 1007.7

Description

This classic Macaroni & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety cheddar sauce. The addition of saut&# 195;©ed onions and green bell peppers provides a subtle savory depth and slight crunch that balances the creamy cheese. Topped with extra shredded cheese and a sprinkle of paprika, it bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection. ItâÂÂs an ideal dish for weeknight family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that feels homemade and luxurious. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both nostalgic and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions for 7 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter or margarine.
  4. Whisk in flour slowly, stirring continually to prevent lumps, and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly. Continue to stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
  6. Reduce heat to low. Add 1 cup of shredded cheese slowly, stirring continually until melted and smooth.
  7. Stir in chopped onions, green bell pepper, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.
  8. Arrange drained macaroni in a buttered 2 1/2 or 3-quart casserole dish.
  9. Pour the cheese sauce mixture over the macaroni, stirring gently to combine.
  10. Spread the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
  11. Sprinkle paprika over the cheese topping.
  12. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 1007.7kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 52.2g81%
Saturated Fat 29.3g147%
Cholesterol 120.0mg40%
Sodium 971.0mg41%
Total Carbohydrate 93.4g32%
Dietary Fiber 11.1g45%
Sugars 13.5g
Protein 50.6g102%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Ingredient Substitutions: You can substitute the green bell pepper with red pepper for a slightly sweeter flavor, or add 2 cups of lean cubed cooked ham for a heartier meal. Sharp cheddar works best for flavor, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or Gruyère for variety.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350ðF for 20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

Tip: For a creamier sauce, use whole milk instead of reduced-fat milk. Ensure the cheese is finely shredded for the smoothest melt.

Keywords: macaroni, cheese, cheddar, baked, comfort food, vegetarian, family dinner, comforting, creamy, pasta, onions, peppers, homemade, side dish, main course
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