From-Scratch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe w/ Homemade Pasta

Step 1

Make the elbow pasta. Add 4 cups of flour to a counter workspace in the shape of a pyramid. Use your fingers to make a large whole for the eggs. Crack 4 eggs into the hole, then whisk the eggs inside of the hole with a fork. Gradually begin to whisk some flour from the sides into the eggs and continue to do this until you have whisked all of the flour into the eggs. Use your hands to bring all of the flour into the dough and then knead until you have a softer dough. Dough will be firm, but may also be sticky, so it will be helpful to use a dough scraper while you do this. Let dough rest for 15 minutes.

Step 2

Bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil.

Step 3

Once dough has rested, take your dough scaper and cut dough into small pieces, then roll into little balls between your palms. The balls should be small, like the size of a walnut. Turn the KitchenAid Pasta Attachment on and then begin by placing a ball into your macaroni pasta attachment, allowing it to come through. Then, continue to add the balls in while simultaneously cutting the macaroni and laying them separately onto a dishcloth. This process will move quickly, so be ready. Continue adding the balls of dough into the attachment and cutting the elbow pasta with attached cutter until you have run out of dough.

Step 4

Meanwhile, get started making your cheese sauce. Melt butter over medium heat in a medium-large pot or large saucepan. Use a whisk or a silicone spatula to whisk in the flour and ground mustard so that there aren’t any clumps.

Step 5

Over medium heat, slowly whisk in milk, little by little, stirring constantly to keep consistency thick and to press out clumps as they form. Do not add milk all at once. Add very small amounts of milk and add a little more once it’s fully integrated. Continue whisking and stirring for several minutes until thick and bubbling. Turn heat down to low, then add in the shredded cheese and allow it to melt in while you stir. Season cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6

Cook the pasta. Add the macaroni to the pot of boiling water and allow to boil for 4-5 minutes until al dente. Strain the water and then pour the pasta directly into the pan with the cheese sauce. Stir well and serve immediately.

Tip

Macaroni and cheese makes a great after-school snack and leftovers can be put in school lunchbox.