Easy Tinis Mac Cheese

A creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese that's quick and comforting perfect for a fast weeknight meal or a cozy lunch.

I first served this to my family on a busy weeknight and it quickly became a favorite for its rich flavor and simplicity.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 4 oz (115 g) elbow macaroni
• Sauce: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup (25 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1/8 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Topping (optional): 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon melted butter

Instructions

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Step 1:

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to make a roux.

Step 3:

Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 3–5 minutes).

Step 4:

Lower the heat to low. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 5:

Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.

Step 6 (Optional):

For a baked topping Preheat broiler. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Broil for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7:

Serve hot.

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This dish has brought many smiley dinner moments with my family, especially on cold evenings.

Variations

Add cooked diced ham or steamed broccoli for a protein or vegetable boost.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this recipe suitable for gluten intolerances.

Allergen Information

Contains milk and wheat. May contain traces of soy or nuts depending on cheese and pasta brands. Always check labels if allergies are a concern.

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Chop vegetables, slice meats, and prep ingredients easily for everyday cooking and homemade recipes.

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This macaroni and cheese is a quick way to bring comfort and smiles to your table anytime.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, but other short pastas like shells or rotini work well, too.

→ How can I make the sauce thicker?

Ensure the roux is cooked for at least a minute before adding milk and stir constantly to avoid lumps for a smooth, thick sauce.

→ Can I add a crunchy topping?

Yes, mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter and broiling briefly creates a golden, crispy crust to complement the creamy pasta.

→ What seasonings enhance the flavor?

Besides salt and pepper, a pinch of paprika adds warmth, while a dash of mustard powder or hot sauce can brighten the overall taste.

→ How to adapt for dietary preferences?

Use gluten-free pasta and flour for gluten-free needs; add cooked ham or steamed broccoli for extra protein and nutrition.