Cafeteria Style Mac And Cheese

There’s something oh-so-comforting about a piping hot dish of creamy mac and cheese. It’s a classic favorite that brings back memories of school cafeterias and cozy family dinners. Recreating that nostalgic cafeteria-style mac and cheese at home is easier than you think. With simple ingredients and a few pro tips, you can whip up a batch of this ultimate comfort food to enjoy with loved ones.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb elbow macaroni
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 cups whole milk
– 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 2 cups American cheese, shredded
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

3. Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

4. Add the shredded cheddar and American cheese to the pot, reserving some for topping the dish later. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well-coated. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil until well combined. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese. Finish off by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheese on top.

7. Bake the mac and cheese in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

8. Once baked, allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out generous portions onto plates and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness.

This cafeteria-style mac and cheese is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of cheddar and American cheese gives it a rich and gooey texture that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. You can also customize this recipe by adding crispy bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of paprika for some extra flavor.

Enjoy this classic comfort dish on a lazy Sunday afternoon or serve it up as a side at your next family gathering. Just like those wonderful cafeteria lunches of yesteryear, this homemade mac and cheese will warm your heart and soul with every delicious bite.