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+ servings

Mac and Cheese Bar

A customizable mac and cheese bar featuring creamy cheese sauce and a variety of toppings for a fun and interactive dining experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tbsp butter for roux
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour for roux
  • 2 cups milk whole milk preferred
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
Toppings
  • 1 cup crumbled bacon
  • 1 cup chopped green onions
  • 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup jalapeños sliced
  • 1 cup bread crumbs for topping

Method
 

Prepare the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
  1. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
  2. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Combine and Serve
  1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
  2. Transfer to a baking dish and top with your choice of toppings. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  3. Serve hot and let guests customize their mac and cheese with additional toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to mix and match toppings based on your preferences. This dish is perfect for gatherings and parties.

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