Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step by Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and add salt.
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to make a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream.
- Keep whisking to avoid lumps.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
Step 3: Add Flavor to the Sauce
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Whisk until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Lower the heat and add the grated cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, and cream cheese cubes.
- Stir continuously until all the cheese has melted.
- The sauce should be smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce.
- Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Bake the Mac and Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the dish.
- Spread it out evenly.
- For extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle more cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the mac and cheese from the oven.
- Let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy dish!
Servings and Preparation Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Serves: 6-8
Notes
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better. It gives the sauce a smooth texture.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be firm to the bite.
- Stir the Sauce Constantly: Stirring prevents the sauce from burning. It also keeps it smooth.
- Add Cheese Gradually: Adding cheese slowly helps it melt evenly. It prevents clumps.
- Season to Taste: Taste the sauce before adding salt. Some cheeses are salty.