Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shells (substitute with whole wheat pasta for added fiber)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or use 2% milk for a lighter version)
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works too, but milder cheese tends to please young palates)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of mustard powder for subtle depth
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside. I always let a little pasta water linger in the pot—it helps the sauce cling to the noodles better, a trick Mama Lou taught me.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbly, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns a soft golden color and smells nutty—this is your roux, the base of a creamy sauce.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. You’ll see it coat the back of a spoon—that’s when you know it’s ready.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it. I always taste at this stage—it’s like a little moment of magic, reminding me of Mama Lou’s kitchen.
- Add the cooked pasta back into the pot with the sauce. Stir gently until all the noodles are coated in that luscious, cheesy goodness. This step is when Ouma and I used to sneak a bite, hoping Mama Lou wouldn’t catch us!
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired. The colors brighten the dish and add a fresh aroma that makes dinner feel even more special.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
