Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/9 checked
6
servings
16 ounce

Elbow Macaroni

uncooked

4 tbsp

Cornstarch

2 tsp

Salt

1 tsp

Dry Mustard

0.5 tsp

Black Pepper

4 cup

Milk

4 tbsp

Butter

8 ounce

Cheddar Cheese

grated

8 ounce

Monterey Jack Pepper Cheese

grated

Step 1
~4 min

Preheat oven to 375F.

Step 2
~4 min

Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente.

Step 3
~4 min

Drain macaroni and set aside.

Step 4
~4 min

In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornstarch, salt, dry mustard, and pepper.

Step 5
~4 min

Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture is smooth.

Step 6
~4 min

Add butter to the saucepan.

Step 7
~4 min

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly and comes to a boil.

Step 8
~4 min

Be careful not to scorch the milk.

Step 9
~4 min

Remove the saucepan from heat.

Step 10
~4 min

Reserve 1/4 cup of grated cheese for topping.

Step 11
~4 min

Whisk the remaining cheese into the milk mixture until smooth and melted.

Step 12
~4 min

Return the drained macaroni to the pot.

Step 13
~4 min

Stir in the cheese sauce, ensuring the macaroni is evenly coated.

Step 14
~4 min

Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9x13 inch casserole dish.

Step 15
~4 min

Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top.

Step 16
~4 min

Bake for 25 minutes, or until the macaroni and cheese is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Add breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

15 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be assembled ahead of time and baked later.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Medium
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Coleslaw
Green Beans
Garlic Bread

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

United States

Cultural Significance

Comfort food staple in American cuisine.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Thanksgiving
Christmas
Potlucks

Occasion Tags

Weeknight Dinner
Family Meal
Holiday Side Dish
Potluck

Popularity Score

75/100

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