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Easy & Creamy Mac and Cheese (No Flour, No Roux!)

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time5 minsCook Time20 minsTotal Time25 mins

📝 Ingredients:
 8 oz elbow macaroni (or other small pasta shape)
 2–3 cups whole milk (start with 2 cups; adjust as needed)
 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated from block)
 1 cup melty cheese blend (like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Fontina)
 2 tbsp unsalted butter
 Salt (to taste)
 Black pepper (to taste, freshly ground preferred)
 ½ tsp mustard powder (optional, enhances cheese flavor)
 Pinch of paprika (optional, adds warmth and color)
🥣 Instructions:
1

Simmer Pasta in Milk:

In a medium pot, combine pasta, 2 cups of milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.

2

Cook Until Tender:

Let pasta simmer for 8–10 minutes until tender and most of the milk has reduced. Stir often to prevent sticking and promote starch release.

3

Remove from Heat:

Once pasta is cooked and sauce is slightly thickened, remove the pot from heat.

4

Add Cheese Gradually:

Stir in grated cheddar and melty cheese blend a little at a time until fully melted. Add more milk if needed for a looser sauce.

Macaroni cooking in a pot with melted cheese being stirred in, demonstrating the no-flour cheese sauce technique.

5

Adjust Consistency:

Too thick? Add a splash of milk. Too thin? Return to low heat and stir gently.

6

Season and Serve:

Add mustard powder and paprika (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

4 servings

Serving size

Amount per serving
Calories450
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 25g33%
Sodium 400mg18%
Total Carbohydrate 43g16%

Total Sugars 6g

* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.