LIGHT MACARONI AND CHEESE RECIPES

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Prepare macaroni according to package directions.
• Melt butter in a large pan.
• Whisk flour into melted butter to create a light roux (paste).
• Slowly whisk milk into the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
• Allow milk and roux to heat for about one minute, then begin adding the Velveeta.
• Continue to gently whisk the mixture until all Velveeta has melted, then add a pinch of white or black pepper.
• After macaroni has cooked, drain the water from the pot and mix in the cheese sauce.
• Once the macaroni and sauce are mixed together, transfer to a 9 x 13 baking dish.
• Cook uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly.
• Sprinkle 1 or 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top and bake for 5 more minutes, or until cheddar cheese is thoroughly melted.
• Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Steps:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil, add the pasta then follow package directions, but cook 1 minute less than the package calls for. Drain.
• Meanwhile, make the creamy cheese sauce. Melt the butter in a large high-sided pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk the butter and flour together and around the pan until they smell toasted and look light brown; 2 to 3 minutes.
• While whisking, pour in the warm milk. Continue to cook, constantly whisking until the sauce begins to simmer and thickens. (The sauce only thickens after it has reached a simmer.)
• Turn the heat to low then stir in the cheddar and cream cheeses, salt, and black pepper. When the sauce is smooth and velvety, stir in the cooked pasta. If the sauce looks wet/thin, don’t worry, the pasta absorbs some the extra moisture as it cools. Turn the heat off, and then cover with a lid. Leave for 5 minutes, stir once more, and then serve.
• After adding the pasta to the cheese sauce, spoon into a large baking dish, scatter breadcrumbs (optional), and more shredded cheese on top. Bake, uncovered, in a 375-degree Fahrenheit oven until bubbling and browned on top; 25 to 30 minutes.