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5-Ingredient Mac and Cheese

5-Ingredient Mac and Cheese
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A simple and creamy 5-Ingredient Mac and Cheese recipe that delivers rich, cheesy comfort in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines classic ingredients to create a smooth, velvety cheese sauce that’s kid-approved and budget-friendly. Easy to prepare and highly adaptable, this mac and cheese is your go-to comfort food for quick dinners or satisfying snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
  2. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly to combine and cook out the raw flour taste. This takes about 1-2 minutes; you want a smooth, bubbly mixture.
  3. Add Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking, stirring often, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Stir in Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or milk until you reach the perfect creamy consistency.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir gently until fully coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and cheesy flavor.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor and smooth melting.
  • Whisk constantly while making the roux and adding milk to avoid lumps.
  • Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture ensures the best final result.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
  • Cook sauce over medium heat to prevent cheese from separating or becoming grainy.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, 5-ingredient recipe, quick dinner, comfort food, creamy cheese pasta, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/5-ingredient-mac-and-cheese/