Homemade mac and cheese is a comforting classic that never goes out of style. Whether you opt for a sharp cheddar, a gooey gouda, or a combination of both, the result is a rich, indulgent dish that warms both the heart and the palate. Baked to golden perfection or served stovetop, it’s a versatile dish suitable for many, with toppings like breadcrumbs, crispy bacon, or fresh herbs adding delightful dimensions.
The nostalgia of homemade mac and cheese is a reminder of home-cooked goodness, and an enduring favourite at gatherings and family dinners alike!
Creamy Homemade Mac & Cheese
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded Arla Cheddar Cheese
1 cup shredded Arla Gouda Cheese
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to make a roux. The roux should be a pale golden colour.
Slowly add the whole milk while whisking the roux. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and is smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded Arla Cheddar Cheese and Arla Gouda Cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika if you want a bit of a smoky flavour. Stir to combine.
Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into the greased baking dish and top with more shredded cheese. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top afterwards.
Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Your creamy mac and cheese using Arla cheese is ready to enjoy! It’s rich, flavourful, and perfect for all cheese lovers!