Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce:
- ¼ cup butter (50 grams)
- ¼ cup flour (32 grams)
- ¼ tsp salt
- Dash of black pepper
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)
- 1 cup shredded fontina or Gruyère cheese
For the Macaroni:
- 5–6 cups cooked macaroni (2 ½ – 3 cups dried macaroni)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the macaroni until al dente (about 7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Add the salt, pepper, and slowly pour in the milk while stirring constantly. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and fontina (or Gruyère) cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine with Macaroni: Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing until well coated.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot. Optionally, top with additional shredded cheese.
Notes
- Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, or sausage for a heartier meal.
- Veggies: Add sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
- Spicy Mac & Cheese: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
