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Mike's Farm Mac and Cheese Recipe

Mike's Farm Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you love creamy, cheesy comfort food, Mike's Farm Mac and Cheese Recipe is perfect. It’s rich, cheesy and full of flavor. Every bite brings warmth and happiness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk whole or 2%
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika optional
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional for topping
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for breadcrumb topping, optional

Instructions
  

Boil the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Roux

  • In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Add the Milk

  • Slowly whisk in milk. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Cook for 5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

Add Cheese

  • Lower the heat. Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until cheese melts completely and sauce is smooth.

Season the Sauce

  • Add salt, pepper, and paprika (optional). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Pour cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Mix gently until all pasta is coated evenly with the creamy sauce.

Prepare Breadcrumb Topping (Optional)

  • Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil in a small bowl. This will give a crunchy topping to your mac and cheese.

Transfer to Baking Dish

  • Pour macaroni and cheese into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top if using.

Bake the Mac and Cheese

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

  • Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with your family.

Notes

  • Use a mix of cheeses like gouda, gruyere, or fontina for extra flavor.
  • Add cooked bacon or ham for a meat version.
  • Sprinkle extra paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.
  • Swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers for a crunchier topping.
  • Add vegetables like peas, broccoli, or spinach for a healthier twist.
Keyword Mike's Farm Mac and Cheese Recipe