Should macaroni be par boiled when making and cheese?

Here's why:

* Overcooking: Parboiling can lead to mushy macaroni, especially if you overcook it.

* Time: It adds an extra step to the process, making it longer.

* Flavor: Parboiling doesn't significantly impact the flavor of the macaroni.

However, there are a few situations where parboiling might be helpful:

* Large Batch: If you're making a huge batch of mac and cheese for a crowd, parboiling might help ensure even cooking.

* Specific Recipes: Some recipes specifically call for parboiling.

* Cheese Sauce: If you're making a very thin cheese sauce, parboiling can prevent the noodles from absorbing too much liquid and becoming soggy.

Generally, it's easier and more efficient to cook the macaroni directly in the cheese sauce. Just be sure to stir it frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.