Easy Mac And Cheese

This easy mac and cheese recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting, delicious meal on the table fast. The creamy cheese sauce pairs beautifully with the crispy bread crumbs and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 20

Total Time: 35

Servings: servings

Author: Deborah Rainford

Ingredients

250 grams (½ lb) macaroni, or your favourite short pasta
30 grams (2 tablespoon) butter
30 grams (4 tablespoon) all-purpose flour
500 milliliters (2 cups) milk
¼ teaspoon mixed spice
½ teaspoon garlic powder
200 grams (1 ⅔ cups) cheddar cheese, grated
50 grams (½ cups) parmesan cheese, grated
50 grams (¾ cups) bread crumbs
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Stir in the garlic powder and mixed spice.
Add the cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure all the pasta is well-coated.
Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with a bit of melted butter (optional for extra crispiness). Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake (optional): For a golden, crispy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the bread crumbs on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme leaves before serving. Enjoy your easy mac and cheese with bread crumbs and parsley!

Notes

Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, gouda, or gruyere, for a different flavour profile.
Make it spicy: To give the cheese sauce a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Make ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Nutrition

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