Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/10 checked
6
servings
1 stick

butter

melted

8 tbsp

all-purpose flour

6 tsp

chicken bouillon

6 cup

milk

1 pinch

white pepper

optional

1 pinch

paprika

optional

16 unit

macaroni

2 unit

sharp cheese

grated

1 unit

mild cheese

grated

1 unit

cream cheese

grated

Step 1
~6 min

Melt butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2
~6 min

Whisk in flour, chicken bouillon, and pepper until smooth and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.

Key Technique: Roux
Step 3
~6 min

Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 4
~6 min

Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5
~6 min

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 2 cups of grated cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 6
~6 min

Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well in a colander. Do not rinse.

Step 7
~6 min

In a large, deep casserole dish or pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray, layer the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and remaining grated cheeses.

Key Technique: Cheese Sauce
Step 8
~6 min

Repeat layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.

Step 9
~6 min

Bake in a moderate oven (350°F/175°C) until bubbly and lightly browned, approximately 30-45 minutes.

Step 10
~6 min

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with paprika before serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses like Gruyere, cheddar, and Parmesan.

Add a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch.

Mix in cooked bacon or ham for a meatier dish.

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
Moderate
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side dish or main course.

Pairs well with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Roasted vegetables
Green salad
Coleslaw

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

United States

Cultural Significance

Comfort food staple, often served at holidays and family gatherings.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Thanksgiving
Christmas
Easter

Occasion Tags

Family dinner
Holiday meal
Potluck

Popularity Score

85/100

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