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Macaroni Cheese

Macaroni Cheese

Serves: 4 Prep: 10 mins Cook: 25 mins Total: 35 mins

Creamy, cheesy macaroni baked to golden perfection, making a comforting and classic favorite.



 

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 300g macaroni pasta
  • 50g butter
  • 50g plain flour
  • 600ml milk (whole milk works best)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
  • 200g mature cheddar cheese, grated
  • 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for topping)

Topping (Optional)

  • 50g breadcrumbs
  • 25g butter, melted
  • Extra grated cheese

Instructions

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Cook the Pasta

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  1. Step 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil.

  2. Step 2

    Cook the macaroni until just al dente (about 7 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

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  1. Step 3

    In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

  2. Step 4

    Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

  3. Step 5

    Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until smooth.

  4. Step 6

    Simmer gently until thickened (about 5 minutes).

  5. Step 7

    Stir in Dijon mustard, cheddar, and half the Parmesan until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine

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  1. Step 8

    Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.

Bake (Optional but Recommended)

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  1. Step 9

    Transfer to an ovenproof dish.

  2. Step 10

    Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and scatter over the top, along with the remaining Parmesan and a pinch of smoked paprika.

  3. Step 11

    Bake at 200°C (180°C fan) for 15–20 minutes, until golden and bubbling.

Serve

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  1. Step 12

    Let it cool slightly before serving.

  2. Step 13

    Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Additional Notes

Suggested Pairing

  • Garlic bread or crusty baguette
  • A light salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness

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