Double Cheese and Macaroni: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight
Description
Dive into the comforting world of Double Cheese and Macaroni, a dish that promises to delight both young and old alike, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. This recipe, shared from lovewithrecipes.com, brings together the creamy richness of cheese and the nostalgic goodness of macaroni, creating a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, this dish is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Recipe Details
| Category | Cheese |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | Approximately 4-6 servings |
| Keywords | Toddler Friendly, Kid Friendly, High In Protein, < 60 Mins, Oven |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 762.6 |
| Total Fat | 45.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 28.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 139.1 mg |
| Sodium | 972.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 53 g |
| Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Sugar | 1.4 g |
| Protein | 35.8 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | cups elbow macaroni |
| 3 | tablespoons butter |
| 2 | tablespoons flour |
| 3 1/2 | cups milk |
| 8 | ounces sharp cheddar cheese |
| 4 | ounces Monterey Jack cheese |
| 1/2 – 1 | teaspoon salt |
| to taste | black pepper |
Instructions
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Cook the Macaroni: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook until it is almost done—just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Preheat the Oven: While the macaroni cooks, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes a light golden color. This step is crucial for developing flavor in your cheese sauce.
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Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to combine. Continue cooking this mixture over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re aiming for a consistency that is slightly thicker than milk—this will provide a rich base for your cheese sauce.
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Incorporate Seasonings and Cheeses: Once the milk mixture has thickened, season it with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Then, add the sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until they are completely melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
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Combine with Macaroni: Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious cheesy goodness.
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Bake the Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
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Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an additional layer of flavor and texture, switch your oven setting to broil and broil the dish for about 3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, as this step will give you a lovely golden crust on top.
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Rest Before Serving: Once out of the oven, let the Double Cheese and Macaroni sit for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the dish to set, making it easier to serve.
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Serve and Enjoy: Scoop generous portions onto plates, and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness of this delightful macaroni dish. It’s perfect on its own or served alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Double Cheese and Macaroni recipe is a crowd-pleaser that showcases the simple yet satisfying combination of pasta and cheese, making it an excellent choice for family meals, potlucks, or simply when you’re craving comfort food. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, so they too can enjoy a taste of this cheesy delight!
