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Dave’s Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Dave's Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Creamy, cheesy macaroni made with cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. This easy homemade version delivers rich flavor and smooth texture in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect side dish or comfort-food meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni
  • 1 teaspoon Salt For pasta water
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
  • 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Room temperature
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Freshly shredded
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Freshly shredded
  • 1 tablespoon Parmesan Cheese Grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt For sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Paprika

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot For boiling pasta
  • 1 Colander For draining macaroni
  • 1 Medium saucepan For cheese sauce
  • 1 Whisk Prevent lumps
  • 1 Wooden spoon Stirring
  • 1 Measuring cup set Accurate measurements
  • 1 Cheese grater Fresh cheese shredding
  • 1 Baking dish Optional for baked version

Method
 

Step 1
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
    Dave’s Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 2
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until a smooth roux forms.
    Dave’s Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 3
  1. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
    Dave’s Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 4
  1. Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
    Dave’s Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 5
  1. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well and taste for seasoning.
    Dave’s Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 6
  1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until every piece of pasta is coated evenly.
    Dave’s Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 7
  1. Serve immediately. For a baked version, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
    Dave’s Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Notes

  • Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers.
  • For extra flavor, mix in crispy bacon or diced jalapeños.
  • Do not boil the cheese sauce after adding cheese, or it may become grainy.
  • This recipe can be refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container.