Macaroni and cheese, a classic comfort food and popular family meal, is a dish consisting of cooked macaroni pasta and a creamy cheese sauce. Originating in Europe and evolving in the United States, the dish has become a staple in households and restaurants across the world, with numerous variations and flavor additions to suit individual tastes.
The basic recipe involves cooking elbow macaroni al dente before blending it with a roux-based cheese sauce, typically using cheddar or a blend of cheeses, and baking in the oven to develop a crispy crust. Optional add-ins include vegetables, meats, or other cheeses to create a more complex dish.