Get ready to transform your ordinary mac and cheese into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have everyone at the dinner table begging for seconds! This isn't just another pasta dish - it's a creamy, cheesy adventure that combines the rich flavors of cheddar and mozzarella in a way that'll make your taste buds dance. Whether you're a comfort food lover or a cheese enthusiast, our Zebra Mac n Cheese recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once butter is completely melted and bubbling, add all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux. This will help thicken the cheese sauce.
- Gradually pour milk into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the mixture begins to thicken and becomes smooth, about 5-6 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine seasonings evenly throughout the sauce.
- Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the sauce, stirring until completely melted and creating a creamy, smooth texture. Remove from heat.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni, stirring gently to ensure every pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to set slightly before serving.
- Optional: For a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle additional cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Tips
- Always use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, most luxurious sauce. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- Whisk your roux continuously to prevent burning and ensure a smooth base for your cheese sauce.
- Add milk gradually and keep stirring to avoid lumps in your sauce.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different cheese combinations or add a pinch of smoked paprika.
- If your sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little extra milk. If it's too thin, continue cooking to reduce and thicken.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and become even more creamy.
- For a crispy top, don't skip the optional broiling step - it adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 95mg
