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Better Than Grandma’s Mac & Cheese: 1 Flawless Recipe

Better Than Grandma’s Mac & Cheese
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This recipe delivers an ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese that you will find superior to any family recipe. We fixed the common flaws to create a rich, indulgent comfort food classic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 4 ounces Gruyère cheese, freshly grated
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and Dijon mustard.
  6. Add the grated cheeses to the sauce in handfuls, stirring until completely melted and smooth before adding the next batch. This creates the ultra-creamy base.
  7. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated.
  8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Always grate your own cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • Warming the milk before adding it to the roux helps prevent lumps.
  • Using a combination of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack provides the best flavor and melt quality.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.

Nutrition

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