Classic macaroni and cheese recipe with a step-by-step guide

Classic macaroni and cheese 

Certainly! Here's a classic macaroni and cheese recipe with a step-by-step guide:

### Ingredients:

- 8 oz (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder

- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

- 2 cups whole milk

- 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional, for extra creaminess)

- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

### Instructions:

#### Cook the Macaroni:

1. **Boil Water:**

   - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. **Cook Macaroni:**

   - Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Classic macaroni and cheese 

#### Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

3. **Make a Roux:**

   - In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste.

4. **Add Seasonings:**

   - Stir in salt, black pepper, mustard powder, onion powder, and garlic powder.

5. **Pour in Milk:**

   - Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens.

6. **Add Cheese:**

   - Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese (and mozzarella, if using). Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

#### Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:

7. **Mix Macaroni:**

   - Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until the macaroni is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.

#### Optional Breadcrumb Topping:

8. **Prepare Breadcrumbs (Optional):**

   - In a small pan, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add breadcrumbs and toast them until golden brown. This step is optional but adds a crunchy topping.

#### Serve:

9. **Serve Hot:**

   - Spoon the macaroni and cheese into a serving dish. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top.

10. **Enjoy:**

    - Serve the macaroni and cheese hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins such as cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or diced tomatoes. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preference.