Classic Mac & Cheese Recipe

Classic Mac & Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 ounces dry pasta
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 cup light cream (10-12% MF)
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder and pepper, to taste
• 1 can cheddar cheese soup (10.75 oz)
• 4 cups cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. However, drain it 2 minutes earlier than the recommended time to ensure a firm (al dente) texture. Rinse the pasta under cold water and set it aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until they become frothy. Gradually mix in the milk and light cream. Stir in the cheddar cheese soup, dry mustard powder, and onion powder. Add 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and the freshly grated parmesan cheese, leaving 1 cup of cheddar aside for later.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture, stirring gently to ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
5. Assemble: Transfer the pasta and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese over the top for a golden, bubbly finish.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the center of your oven and bake, uncovered, at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes or until the top is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Cool: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. The mac and cheese may appear slightly loose but will firm up as it cools.

Enjoy!