- 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (optional for richer texture)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard (optional, enhances flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
- 2 ½ cups shredded white cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra depth of flavor)
Optional Topping:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder