Macaroni and Cheese

🧀 1. Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 3 cups milk
• ¼ cup butter
• 2½ tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth.
4. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
5. Add cheddar and Parmesan; stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine macaroni and cheese sauce, then pour into a baking dish.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top (optional) and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

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🥓 2. Bacon Mac and Cheese

Additions:

• 6 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Optional: a pinch of cayenne for spice

Method:
Follow the classic recipe, but stir the bacon and paprika into the cheese sauce before baking. You’ll get a smoky, savory flavor.

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🌶️ 3. Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese

Additions:

• 2–3 diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
• ½ tsp chili flakes
• Use a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheese

Method:
Sauté the jalapeños in butter before adding flour for the roux. Continue with the same cheese sauce steps — this adds a gentle heat.

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🥦 4. Veggie Mac and Cheese

Additions:

• 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
• ½ cup diced bell peppers or peas

Method:
Steam or lightly cook the vegetables before mixing them into the cheese sauce. Great for a healthier twist!

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🍞 5. One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Quick Version (no baking!):

1. In a pot, combine 2 cups macaroni, 2½ cups milk, and 1 cup water.
2. Simmer until pasta is tender.
3. Stir in 2 cups shredded cheese, 2 tbsp butter, and season to taste.
4. Optional: add garlic powder or mustard powder for extra flavor.