Classic Mac and CheeseIngredients:
1 pound elbow macaroni 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 4 cups whole milk 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional) 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional)Instructions:
1.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2.
Cook macaroni according to package directions.
Drain and set aside.
3.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4.
Gradually whisk in milk.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
5.
Whisk in salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese (if using).
Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
6.
Stir in cooked macaroni.
7.
Pour macaroni mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8.
In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter.
Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni mixture.
9.
Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
10.
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips:
For a richer flavor, use a combination of sharp and mild cheddar cheeses.
If you don’t have bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers or potato chips.
Add a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Top with chopped bacon or scallions for extra flavor.

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