Ingredients
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2 cups elbow macaroni
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup mozzarella cheese
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt to taste
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½ teaspoon mustard (optional)
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½ cup extra cheese for topping
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the macaroni
Heat a big pot of salted water till it boils. Cook the elbow macaroni as directed on the package until it’s just soft but still slightly firm. The pasta will cook a bit more in the oven, but try not to overcook it. After draining, set aside the macaroni.
Step 2: Prepare the cheese sauce
Place a saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely. Add the all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about one minute. This creates a smooth base for your creamy cheese sauce. Make sure the flour does not turn too dark.
Step 3: Add the milk
Slowly pour the milk into the saucepan while whisking continuously. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Cook for approximately 3–5 minutes, stirring regularly, until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thick.
Step 4: Add the seasonings
Add garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and mustard if using. Stir everything together so the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Step 5: Add the cheese
Lower the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese. Stir gently until both cheeses melt into a rich, creamy sauce. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cheese, as this can affect its texture.
Step 6: Combine pasta and sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Mix gently until every piece of pasta is completely coated. The mixture should look creamy and cheesy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small splash of milk.
Step 7: Prepare the baking dish
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter. Transfer the cheesy macaroni into the dish and spread it evenly.
Step 8: Add extra cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese generously over the top. This creates a beautiful golden, cheesy crust when baked.
Step 9: Bake until golden
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. For a more golden top, briefly use the oven grill while watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 10: Garnish and serve
Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve warm while the cheese is deliciously melted and stretchy!
Helpful Tips
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For a smoother sauce, use freshly shredded cheese.
For added cheese pull, add a small amount of mozzarella.
Before baking, avoid overcooking the macaroni.
For added taste, add cooked chicken or veggies.
Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic toast.
