Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that’s simple to make and always delicious. This fast and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and satisfying meal on the table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, around 8-10 minutes.
2. Drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the flour and whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble, around 2-3 minutes.
5. Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to get rid of any lumps in the flour mixture.
6. Continue cooking the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens, around 5-7 minutes.
7. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth.
8. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan and stir until the pasta is coated with the cheese sauce.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Tips

• For a creamier sauce, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of whole milk.
• To add more flavor, try incorporating other types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Parmesan.
• You can also mix in other ingredients like cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or even broccoli to add some extra nutrients to the dish.
• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm the macaroni and cheese in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Final Thoughts

This fast and easy macaroni and cheese recipe is a weeknight staple that’s sure to please the entire family. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.