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Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Baked Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food recipe featuring tender elbow macaroni smothered in a creamy, sharp cheddar cheese sauce and topped with a buttery, crunchy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for any occasion, this warm, cheesy dish is simple to make, customizable, and loved by both kids and adults alike. Enjoy a timeless meal with a luscious texture and golden baked topping that satisfies every craving.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups milk or cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder or 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside. Cooking pasta slightly underdone ensures it doesn’t get mushy during baking.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, removing the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently. Lower the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and mustard powder for added depth.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cheesy sauce over the cooked pasta, folding gently to coat every piece evenly. This is the creamy heart of your baked mac and cheese, so take care to mix thoroughly for even cheesiness.
  4. Prepare the Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter until evenly coated. This will create the crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
  5. Bake: Transfer the mac and cheese to a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving for the sauce to thicken perfectly.

Notes

  • Use multiple cheeses to balance flavor and meltability.
  • Don’t overcook pasta to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Make a smooth roux by cooking flour and butter together to avoid lumps in the sauce.
  • Allow baked mac and cheese to rest for 5 minutes before serving for better texture.
  • Add breadcrumb topping last for a crisp, golden crust that contrasts the creamy pasta.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, comfort food, creamy mac and cheese, cheesy pasta bake, easy mac and cheese

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/baked-mac-and-cheese/