
Ingredients for - Easy Mac and Cheese
How to cook deliciously - Easy Mac and Cheese
1. Stage
Cook the macaroni according to the package directions Editor's Tip: You can also try a cold water pasta hack, if you're up for an experiment. Save time by adding your pasta to a skillet filled with a quart of cold water. Bring it to a boil then cook and stir until it's al dente. It should be faster than bringing a pot of water to a boil.
2. Stage
Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the flour, salt and pepper and whisk them until they form a smooth paste. Editor's Tip: For the best taste, cook the roux for one to two minutes before proceeding to the next step. This ensures the sauce will not have a raw flour taste or texture.
3. Stage
Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking well as you pour. Once all the milk has been added, bring the sauce to a boil and cook, stirring constantly, for two minutes or until it has thickened. Remove the sauce from the heat, then slowly add the cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese has melted. You should have a luscious, smooth cheese sauce. Editor's Tip: Don't be tempted to pour all of your milk in at once. Slowly adding milk to the roux is key to achieving a velvety smooth sauce without lumps or grittiness.
4. Stage
Drain the macaroni, then add the hot pasta to the cheese sauce. Toss to coat the pasta, then serve the mac and cheese warm.